Japan doubles down on humanitarian aid to Cambodia,

Counsellor of the Japanese Embassy in Cambodia, Matsuda Junsaku, talks to journalists after taking stock of the refugee situation in Banteay Meanchey province on Monday. KT/Khem Sovannara

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Synopsis: Japanese Embassy says Tokyo will continue efforts to promote de-escalation and full implementation of the ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand.

Japan has pledged continued humanitarian assistance and support for peace efforts by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) over the Cambodia-Thailand border row after a diplomatic field visit to displacement centres and contested border areas in Banteay Meanchey province, a senior Japanese embassy official said.

Counsellor of the Japanese Embassy in Cambodia, Matsuda Junsaku, joined foreign diplomats in observing the living conditions of people displaced by Cambodia-Thailand border tensions, describing the visit as an important opportunity to assess the situation firsthand.

“The field visit was quite useful for every country, including Japan. And I discovered that people are still suffering. And also I discovered that the government of Cambodia is making a lot of efforts for people in this place,” Matsuda told the media at Wat Kandol displacement centre in Thma Puok district, Banteay Meanchey Province.

He said that Japan has been providing assistance to Cambodian civilians. In August last year, in response to urgent humanitarian needs, Tokyo provided emergency grant assistance of nearly $1.8 million through the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and UNICEF, among other support programmes.

“We will discuss with Tokyo what we can do more to support Cambodian people,” he said.

Japan has also decided to support the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT), which plays a role in maintaining stability following the ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand.

“This year ASEAN chair is the Philippines. So, Japan would like to continue to discuss with the Philippines and other ASEAN members what we can do for the AOT. Because we believe that AOT has a crucial role for the resolution of the situation,” Matsuda said.

Responding to questions on Japan’s next step following the second ceasefire agreement and the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers, Matsuda reaffirmed Tokyo’s commitment to continued assistance and diplomatic engagement.

“We will continue to provide assistance to people in Cambodia through ODA and humanitarian assistance as well, collaborating with the international community. And also for the de-escalation of tensions, we keep talking with Cambodia and Thailand for further realising the de-escalation of tensions,” he said.

In a statement on Monday, the Japanese Embassy said Tokyo will continue efforts to promote de-escalation, including the implementation of the ceasefire agreement.

These efforts include diplomatic initiatives in coordination with countries, including the United States and ASEAN member states.

Speaking at the reception to celebrate the 66th birthday of Emperor Naruhito, Japanese Ambassador to Cambodia Ueno Atsushi said his country supports efforts to maintain peace.

“The government of Japan will continue to undertake various initiatives, in cooperation with relevant countries, to support further de-escalation of tensions, and will continue to provide various forms of assistance,” he added.

-Khmer Times-
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