Ivor Callely
Question:147 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position in Cambodia; his understanding of the progress of democratisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21044/99]
Vol. 509 No. 6
147 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position in Cambodia; his understanding of the progress of democratisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21044/99]
As the Deputy will be aware, the Paris Peace Accord in 1991 brought an end to many years of conflict in Cambodia and led to a UN peacekeeping operation in that country. A coalition government formed after the 1993 elections did not last and violent confrontations took place between supporters of both parties. In 1998, however, a peace settlement mediated by Japan was followed by elections. These took place with UN and EU assistance and were overseen by 80 EU observers, including four from Ireland. Five members of the Oireachtas also acted as nationally-funded observers. Violent disturbances which took place when each side rejected the outcome of the election were halted by the intervention of King Norodom Sihanouk, and both parties agreed to work together in the interest of national unity.
This arrangement appears to be working well so far. However, in view of the legacy of bitterness and division, the process of national reconciliation in Cambodia can be expected to face some difficulties.