Cambodian First Lady Presides Over UNICEF Cambodia Ambassador Appointment Ceremony

Phnom penh: Cambodian First Lady Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet presided over the appointment ceremony of a UNICEF Cambodia National Ambassador on Monday afternoon. The event also celebrated International Children's Day, organized by UNICEF Cambodia under the theme 'Together for Every Child: From Healing to Hope.' According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the ceremony, held in Phnom Penh, saw Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony extend her congratulations on the observance of several significant days: the 77th International Children's Day on June 1, the 25th World Day Against Child Labour on June 12, and the upcoming Cambodian Children's Day in 2026. The celebrations were conducted under the theme 'Peace as the Foundation for Respect and Protection of Children.' The First Lady expressed her appreciation for UNICEF Cambodia's longstanding partnership with the Royal Government of Cambodia in supporting various aspects of children's lives, including health, nutrition, education, protection, access to clean wat er, and sanitation. She remarked on the progress made through these collaborative efforts, noting that many Cambodian children have experienced improved access to education, quality healthcare, and overall care in recent years. Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony emphasized the role of peace in ensuring children's welfare and development, stating that peace provides safety, educational opportunities, and hope for a brighter future. She also reflected on Cambodia's history, highlighting how past conflicts had disrupted the lives of children, separating them from their families and depriving them of essential services and opportunities for development. The First Lady concluded by reaffirming the importance of maintaining peace and ongoing efforts to protect and promote the rights and well-being of every child in Cambodia.