China Supports Cambodia's Mine-Clearing Initiatives Following USAID Suspension
Grant guarantees that demining efforts persist despite the halt in U.S. assistance.
China has intervened to finance Cambodia's mine-clearing initiatives with a one-year, multi-million-dollar grant following the suspension of USAID payments by the U.S., which halted operations. The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) revealed that China’s $4.4 million grant will fund over 400 technical specialists working across seven provinces. This development underscores the increasing Chinese influence in Cambodia, a nation already closely allied with Beijing.
The U.S. aid freeze, which is part of a larger review of foreign assistance, has faced criticism for creating opportunities for China to broaden its global engagement. The U.S. Embassy had intended to provide funds for demining, but Cambodian officials noted that mine removal support is also sourced from other donors. Despite this change, the U.S. may reconsider its aid approach, keeping the door open for potential future involvement.
The U.S. aid freeze, which is part of a larger review of foreign assistance, has faced criticism for creating opportunities for China to broaden its global engagement. The U.S. Embassy had intended to provide funds for demining, but Cambodian officials noted that mine removal support is also sourced from other donors. Despite this change, the U.S. may reconsider its aid approach, keeping the door open for potential future involvement.
