UK Minister Visits Border Community in Oddar Meanchey, Reaffirms Support for Children’s Education
Baroness Rosie Winterton toured a UK-funded education programme in Kok Prasat and met families affected by border tensions, while reiterating the UK’s commitment to helping children stay in school and supporting dialogue between Cambodia and Thailand.
UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Baroness Rosie Winterton visited a community in Oddar Meanchey’s Kok Prasat district affected by tensions along the Cambodia-Thailand border, where she met families, children and local leaders to discuss the challenges facing residents and ongoing support for education.
According to a statement posted by the British Embassy in Phnom Penh on Wednesday, the visit focused on the impact of border tensions on local communities and the importance of ensuring children can continue their education despite difficult circumstances.
“Even in times of conflict, childhood and education must continue,” the embassy said.
During the visit, Winterton observed a UK-funded education programme and met children who have continued their studies despite experiencing hardships linked to the situation along the border.
The minister also spoke with families and community leaders, who shared their priorities and needs as communities adapt to ongoing challenges.
Together with Oddar Meanchey Governor Mean Chanyada, Winterton discussed ways the UK could continue working with local authorities and partners to support affected communities and help children remain in school.
“The UK remains committed to working with Cambodia and partners to support affected communities, keep children learning, and encourage peaceful dialogue and cooperation between Thailand and Cambodia,” the statement said.
