On September 9, at the Cambodian Mine Action Center (CMAC) Headquarters in Phnom Penh, the second Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting of the “Project for Strengthening Organizational Functions of CMAC Phase 2, was held between CMAC and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) working groups.

The meeting focused on a detailed review and revision of the project and operational plans, including the establishment of key indicators and time frames for the implementation of each activity, ensuring the project’s successful execution. This three-year project, running from March 2025 to March 2028, aims to support CMAC in achieving its 2026–2035 Strategic Plan. During the first JCC meeting, held on May 30, 2025, the two sides agreed to establish three technical working groups: International Cooperation; Development of Materials and Technology and Public Relations.

These groups are tasked with planning, implementing, and monitoring project activities, each according to their respective areas of expertise, to ensure smooth and efficient project implementation. Following the second meeting, H.E. Heng Ratana, Delegate of the Royal Government in charge as Director General of CMAC, and SANUI Kazumasa, Chief Representative of JICA Cambodia, signed the revised minutes of the meeting, officially reaffirming their commitment to Phase 2 of the project. This step aligns with the broader goals of the Cambodia–Japan Mine Action Initiative.

The project is designed to strengthen CMAC’s institutional capacity and elevate its role as a specialized national body capable of delivering mine action services at international standards. Additionally, it aims to promote CMAC’s participation in global mine action training, build sustainable and high-quality human resources, and reinforce international cooperation. Speaking at the signing ceremony, SANUI Kazumasa expressed agreement with CMAC’s focus on four core areas: technical equipment, standard operating procedure, human resources, and international cooperation. He emphasized that sharing CMAC’s experience globally is a top priority for the Japanese side. Ratana expressed deep gratitude to the Government and people of Japan, especially JICA, for their continued support. He reaffirmed CMAC’s commitment to further strengthening its role under Phase 2 of the project and to expanding its contributions in the field of mine action internationally. CMAC has previously provided training and technical support to mine-affected countries such as Colombia, Iraq, Laos, Angola, and Ukraine.

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