Homecoming ceremony of Cambodian Peacekeepers Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company (EOD) from MINUSMA, and Medal Ceremony for 3 Units: Airfield Engineering Unit MINUSMA, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit MINUSMA, Military Police Unit UNMISS

[Check against delivery]

• Excellency General Tea Seiha, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of National Defence,
• Excellency General Sem Sovanny, Director-General of the National Center for Peace Keeping Force, Mine and Explosive Remnants of War Clearance,
• The distinguished Peacekeepers,
• Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen.

On behalf of the United Nations, it is my honor to join you here today to welcome home the Peacekeepers of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company (EOD) who have just returned from their mission in Mali with MINUSMA.

I would also like to extend a warm welcome home to the Peacekeepers of two units who have recently returned from their missions: the Airfield Engineering Company from MINUSMA and the Military Police Company of UNMISS.

The safe return of these men and women adds to our celebration and deep gratitude.

To Distinguished Peacekeepers,

You joined a fearless and proud tradition of Cambodian service in the cause of United Nations peacekeeping, becoming a part of the ranks of more than 9000 Cambodian troops who have served across many countries. I salute your courage and dedication in supporting global peace and security.

Your commitment and service took you a world away, to Mali, South Sudan, and other parts of the world. I can say from personal experience that this mission undoubtedly presented you with serious challenges and moments of difficulty.

However, you rose to meet these moments and faced the difficult times with the honor and spirit that successive deployments of fellow Cambodian peacekeepers have demonstrated. These are reflected in the principles of the United Nations and the honor of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

I have experienced the transformative impact of peacekeeping firsthand. Before coming to take up my function in Cambodia, I worked in Mali as the head of United Nations Development Programme and witnessed Cambodia’s peacekeepers in action on the ground. I was impressed then by their dedication to building peace, security, and friendship.

Your service has reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to upholding the spirit of the UN Charter and joining together with a true community of nations, united in their quest for peace and a better future for all.

I would also like to take this moment to extend my heartfelt thanks to the families of the peacekeepers – the husbands, wives, parents, children and beyond. It is only through your strength, your sacrifice and your love and support that those returning today can do what they do, can go where they need to go, and serve in the manner that they must serve.

Dear Peacekeepers,

I come here today to not only bid you welcome home, but also to reaffirm your welcome into the United Nations family. You have worn the famous blue helmets, carried the UN emblem on your uniforms and served beneath the UN flag.

We are now joined in a common purpose, sisters and brothers aimed to make tomorrow better than today. I acknowledge your dedication and bravery and have no doubt you will continue to lead by example and uphold the highest standards of integrity.

Excellency Deputy Prime Minister, Excellencies, Peacekeepers, Ladies and Gentlemen,

The United Nations is grateful to you, the Royal Government, and the people of Cambodia for joining the common cause to achieve peace in the world.

I thank you very much.