Banteay Meanchey: Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation, H.E Chea Somethy, emphasized that the opening of the Poipet Transit and Reception Center stands as a significant milestone in the continual progress and accomplishments within the realm of social affairs, veterans and youth rehabilitation, with a particular emphasis on safeguarding victims of human trafficking.

The inauguration ceremony, held on Monday morning, December 18, 2023, in Poipet City, Banteay Meanchey Province, was presided over by His Excellency Dr. Sar Sokha, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior, and Chairman of the National Committee for Counter Trafficking (NCCT), representing Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia.

H.E Chea Somethy underscored that the center’s achievement aligns with the policy program of the Royal Government’s 7th legislature, “Political Programme for Building and Defending the Motherland 2023-2028,” and the first phase of the Pentagon Strategy, “For Growth, Employment, Equity, Efficiency, and Sustainability: Building the Foundation Towards Realizing the Cambodia Vision 2050.”

The establishment and construction of the Poipet Transit and Reception Center signify the commitment of the Royal Government of Cambodia to implement policies and strategic plans, aiming to provide protection and support for victims of human trafficking. The center offers essential services, including temporary accommodation, food, healthcare, education, vocational training, and life skills for victims and vulnerable groups, ensuring their safety, free from racism, or discrimination on disability.

H.E Chea Somethy highlighted the collaboration between the Royal Government of Cambodia and Thailand, where the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation received a grant from the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand through the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA). The total cost of the center amounts to USD 2,999,920, covering an area of 9768 square meters in East Prachea Thom village, Orussey Commune, Poipet City, Banteay Meanchey Province.

It is noteworthy that the Poipet Transit and Reception Center had a symbolic inauguration on September 28, 2023, at the Peace Palace, with the presence of Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, and H.E Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister of Thailand. The official launching ceremony took place today.