UK backs Cambodia development and mine clearance

Photo courtesy of STPM

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed support for Cambodia’s socio-economic development and mine-clearance work during a meeting between Prime Minister Hun Manet and UK Indo-Pacific Minister Baroness Winterton in Phnom Penh.

Baroness Winterton met Hun Manet at the Peace Palace and said the UK would continue backing Cambodia’s efforts to clear landmines and unexploded ordnance, alongside wider development cooperation.

Support for mine clearance

The UK minister also praised Cambodia’s support for people displaced by the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict, including efforts to keep children in education while they are away from home.

Mine and UXO clearance remains a major area of international support for Cambodia, where unexploded remnants of past conflicts continue to affect communities and land use.

Longstanding bilateral ties

Winterton described relations between the UK and Cambodia as longstanding and said there was further potential for cooperation that could bring mutual benefits. Cambodia was her first overseas visit in her role as minister for the Indo-Pacific.

Hun Manet welcomed progress in relations and thanked the UK for scholarships enabling Cambodian students to study in Britain. He said the visit would help strengthen bilateral links.

Areas for future cooperation

The two sides discussed education, tourism, security and defence, mine clearance, people-to-people exchanges and private-sector links. They also exchanged views on developments along the Cambodia-Thailand border.

Hun Manet reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to resolving border issues peacefully, based on international law and existing conventions, treaties and agreements.

What it means for foreigners in Cambodia

For foreign residents, investors and visitors, the talks signal continued international engagement in areas that affect safety, development and education. Mine clearance can make land safer for communities and future investment, while stronger bilateral cooperation may support further opportunities in training, tourism and business ties.

28 August 2026