Boosting investment in Cambodia

Photo by: SOVAN PHILONG

Ajinomoto's Cambodia President Ichiro Nishimura says that although Cambodian officials still demand bribes, in other respects the country is no longer a pariah among foreign direct investors.

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It was difficult to convince the Tokyo top management [to invest in Cambodia]....
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(CAAI News Media)

Friday, 25 September 2009 15:01 Steve Finch

Japanese food firm Ajinomoto will begin building a new factory here next month; the company's Cambodia president, Ichiro Nishimura, explains why multinationals no longer fear the Kingdom

CEO TALK

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By Steve Finch

Ajinomoto has recently signed a deal to construct a packing factory in the Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone (PPSEZ) starting next month. What prompted the company to expand beyond the distribution operation you first set up in 2001?

Cambodia is between Vietnam and Thailand.… We [already] have big business between Vietnam and Cambodia, and between Thailand and Cambodia.

Actually, we import … and sell here, but this country has big potential due to economic progress and stable politics, and most Cambodian people … are young.

According to economic growth, people’s eating habits, [their] lifestyle should change – such as KFC. It has already changed.

So, if we make the decision to invest in Cambodia … we see [the potential for] a suitable factory. Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone has [the necessary] infrastructure and … incentives.

So what incentives has Ajinomoto received to set up at the PPSEZ?

The maximum nine-year tax holiday. And construction materials, free import tax and free VAT – this is on construction, on investment such as machines or steel structures, things like this.

Ajinomoto has already invested heavily in neighbouring Thailand and Vietnam. How do the tax incentives for foreign investors here compare to the Kingdom’s ASEAN neighbours?

I don’t exactly know [the details of incentives] in Thailand and Vietnam, but the Cambodian government supports [us] – especially the CDC [Council for the Development of Cambodia]….

It’s very attractive support – [there is a] one-stop service from the CDC.

Before coming here … [Ajinomoto thought that] Cambodia was very complicated, that there was a lot of under-the-table money, something like that. We were a bit concerned.

But actually when we came here, it was very supportive. The top of the government was very supportive. For example, tax is a very complicated issue, but the top made it very clear … step-by-step.

But the next position [down in the hierarchy] doesn’t understand that policy or rule.… Their thinking method is very old-fashioned.

You mentioned that Cambodia has a reputation for corruption when it comes to foreign investment. Have you seen it at the lower levels of government here?

Yes, before. But actually, in Japan, if you’re talking about our Tokyo headquarters – my boss or our top management in Tokyo – if you ask them, “Cambodia, what do you think of Cambodia”...?

It was difficult to convince the Tokyo top management [to invest in Cambodia]; it took a long time.

But they came here to see the market and to meet the authorities. They found it easy to understand and then dramatically changed their minds.

But are Cambodian officials at the lower level still asking your company for bribes?

Yes, they still are. This kind of experience in most developing countries is a very common issue....

This still exists, but generally if a foreign company invests in Cambodia, they needn’t be afraid of such things as country risk, collapse, no system....

I clearly say there is no need to be afraid [of Cambodia].

Ajinomoto has plans for a packing factory in the PPSEZ that will import raw materials. Are there also plans to begin manufacturing in Cambodia?

According to our plan, we will start from June next year … start test production in June.

It means this company will combine with a new company. Sales activities from the new company will start from September 2010.

Ajinomoto … will import [raw materials] from Thailand or import from Vietnam, or import from other countries.

We are now studying the most suitable supply chain, which country is the most suitable. Anyway, we import from other countries … in bulk, and we will pack for the first stage.

And the second stage, we will make these products [Nishimura displays a sachet of processed food produced by Ajinomoto]…. It will be mixed here and packed here – for the second stage.

Cambodia has routinely been unable to produce the necessary raw materials for its own industries. To what extent is that putting off multinational companies from investing here?

[One factor] is the exchange rate … and another is AFTA, the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement.

Actually, import tax may be [abolished] in 2015, according to the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement.

In 2015, among the ASEAN countries, there will be free trade – it means import tax is zero.

Still, I hear from the Cambodian authorities … [regarding] Cambodian tax, 19 percent comes from import tax and VAT.

So it means that if Cambodia has no import tax, it will cut [the country’s revenue].

But for the next few years it will directly affect our business.

Research by the UN Development Programme, among others, has shown that Cambodian productivity in the work place and vocational skills are a long way behind the likes of Vietnam and Thailand. Does this concern multinationals like you when you are deciding whether to invest here?

Vietnam 10 years ago was similar to Cambodia and was doing very well, so 10 years later we can catch up with Vietnam’s current level.

So, over time … Cambodia’s level [of labour skills] is becoming higher.

There is a lack of marketing data here to help companies like Ajinomoto identify who its likely customers are and how many of them are in Cambodia. How have you been able to say for certain that you want to enter Cambodia and that you have a potential market here?

We have done market research … by myself, and we have a marketing research company. We have data.

If you compare it to Thailand, with the data quality there is a very big difference, but our products are very basic, such as MSG.

Every Cambodian person eats MSG … so we are at the very basic stage.

If we create a higher-level product, maybe we would need more information, but in the current situation it is enough.

Police Blotter: 25 Sep 2009

(CAAI News Media)

Friday, 25 September 2009 15:01 Cheang Sokha

MURDER SUSPECT FLEES TO KOH KONG

Sman Simrorn, 23 was arrested in Koh Kong province on Monday and sent to Pursat provincial court on charges of premeditated murder. Police in Pursat said that in April of this year the suspect stabbed 18-year-old Kor Sim in the throat after a disagreement over a woman. After the incident, Sman Simrorn fled to Koh Kong province, where he had been staying with his father-in-law, police added.

KOH SANTEPHEAP

PROVINCIAL COPS FOIL DRUG DELIVERY

Pheung Keo, 30, was arrested on Wednesday for possession of 332 grams of heroin at Lily guesthouse in Stung Treng province. Provincial anti-drug police said the suspect, whose hometown is Stung Treng’s Koh Lngor village, Preah Romkel commune, was planning to meet with a Laotian drug trafficker in order to move the dope.

RASMEY KAMPUCHEA

NAUGHTY BUFFALO LEADS TO OVERDOSE

Than Sokhoeun, 29, died on Sunday in Pursat province’s Phnom Kravagn district hospital after overdosing on medicine following an argument with her husband. Police said that Than Sokhoeun was cooking a cake for the Pchum Ben festival near a buffalo stable when the animals broke out of their enclosure and destroyed the dessert. Her husband subsequently berated her for cooking the cake so close to the buffalo stable, upsetting her and driving her to overdose.

KAMPUCHEA THMEY

AMBUSHERS KILL PAGODA PATRON

Huon Chhorvin, 19, was arrested after he and three accomplices allegedly beat 39-year-old Ing Ravuth to death with sticks in Kratie province’s Cheth Borey district on Saturday. Pin Pen, the wife of the victim, told police that her husband was attacked by assailants who jumped out of the woods at the roadside as he was driving his motorbike home from a Pchum Ben ceremony at a local pagoda. Huon Chhorvin confessed to police that he committed the crime at the urging of his friends.

KOH SANTEPHEAP

WOMAN OVERDOSES AFTER ILLNESS

Men Rem, 22, died in Kamrieng district, Battambang province on Sunday after overdosing on medicine. Men Rem’s mother told police that her daughter suffered from an unknown sickness and had tried unsuccessfully for a long time to treat it. She was left home alone when her family members went out to their rice field on Sunday morning and was discovered later that afternoon.

RASMEY KAMPUCHEA

IKF British Welterweight champion ready for Bheut Kam

Photo by: Robert Starkweather

Stephen Meikle will try and use his sizable height advantage against Bheut Kam.

Photo by: Robert Starkweather

Bheut Kam will fight at the heaviest weight of his career this Sunday.

(CAAI News Media)

Friday, 25 September 2009 15:00 Robert Starkweather

BHEUT Kam, the Battambang kickboxing prodigy, will face Scotsman Stephen Meikle in the co-feature of TV3’s inaugural fight card Sunday at the indoor arena at Olympic Stadium.

With his effortless fighting style and ferocious power, Bheut Kam is among the most dominant fighters of his generation. As a teenager, he terrorized the lower ranks, and for years he dominated the 60kg division. Now 22 years old, Bheut Kam enters the ring Sunday at 69kg, the heaviest of his career.

“I have watched a few of his fights on YouTube,” said Meikle, responding to questions by email. “He likes to punch a lot and clinch. I watched him fight Abbas Ahmadi, and he looked very strong.”

Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and raised in Glasgow, Meikle, 26, stumbled into kickboxing as a university student when he enrolled for a Muay Thai class with the idea to get in shape. His fiercely competitive nature quickly took over, and he began training to fight after a single lesson.

After a year on the Scottish circuit, a little training in Bangkok seemed like the next logical step.

“I came to Thailand for a few weeks of training one summer, and started fighting,” Meikle said. “I never looked back.”

That was in 2005. Since then, Meikle has notched up more than two dozen victories and captured the attention of the Muay Thai establishment.

He received full sponsorship from Fairtex Thailand in 2008, and in August of that year beat Phil Pullen at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok to win the British IKF welterweight title, becoming the first Scot to win in the world-famous arena. Two months later, he beat highly ranked fellow countryman Craig Jose on home turf.

A keen student of kickboxing, Meikle has encountered Kun Khmer in the past. “Vorn Viva fought Craig Jose last year a few months before I beat Craig,” he said. “So I watched their fight to pick up tips on how to fight Craig.”

More and more, he says, the Cambodian sport is finding recognition among the gyms in Thailand. “Foreigners have been fighting in Thailand against Thais for years,” he stated. “We are interested to see how Cambodian kickboxing compares. It seems very aggressive and centered more around the clinch, which suits my style of fighting.”

A natural light middleweight, Meikle will likely hold a size and weight advantage over Bheut Kam when the two meet Sunday. “I will have a good bit of height advantage,” Meikle said. “I will be looking to out-clinch and knee him.”

Bheut Kam typically walks around 67kg, and the advantages of last-minute bulking up remain minimal. The experience factor, however, leans heavily in favor of Bheut Kam, who will enter the ring Sunday with a record of 171-5-1. Meikle’s official record stands at 24-5. But in five years of fighting, his unofficial tally likely exceeds that.

In number of years fighting, however, the pair are closely matched with Bheut Kam beginning in 2003, Meikle in August 2004.

“I should be able to use my height and range for this fight,” Meikle said. “I plan to see what he likes to throw and work off his mistakes, then tire him out and, hopefully, take the win.”

Khemara Keila dream of AFC return

Kuoch Sokumpheak is the fan’s favourite for Khmera Keila and should cause the Naga Corp defence problems Saturday.

(CAAI News Media)

Friday, 25 September 2009 15:00 Ken Gadaffi

THE 2005 and 2006 League champions will be going into Saturday’s final as slight underdogs, despite finishing above their opponents in the regular season, and the players and technical crew are determined to make history for themselves. Khemara reached the semifinals of the 2006 AFC President’s Cup and are already looking forward to next year’s international competition if they get their hands on the league trophy.

“We want to win so we can play in the region like we did in the past,” manager Salang Kang stated. “Even though we lack sponsors, everybody is looking forward to this final so that we can win and go on to play in AFC President Cup ... We want to do better next time.”

Khemara overachieve

At the beginning of the season, coach Ung Kanyanith – who captained the side to their last league title in 2006 – said that Khemara’s goal was to qualify for the Super 4 and anything more will be a bonus considering their tight budget and diminutive squad size. However, they surprised everyone to make the playoff finals, in no small part thanks to the explosive talent of strike partners Kuoch Sokumpheak and Nelson Oladiji, who combined to score 26 of the team’s 40 goals during the league campaign.

“Sure we can win,” said an excited Ung Kanyanith. “We hope to get the championship. That’s what we are playing for.”

“We are in the final, and we want to play to win,” asserted central defender Chan Dara. “We are ready to face any team now.”

Playing with a passion

Khemara play football with a lot of heart. Their defence features big, physical bodies, their midfield has technical players and their two forwards are fast and strong. Khemara fans create a thrilling atmosphere at the stadium, especially when their talismanic star Kuoch Sokumpheak is on one of his darting runs.

“No matter who we are against or who is in the team for us, we play the same way in every game and our mentality is always the same,” Ung Kanyanith declared. “We prepare in the right way, the team spirit is high and I have worked on my team to have confidence in themselves.”

Defender Chan Veasna was also upbeat about his team’s chances Saturday. “We pass the ball very well, and if we keep possession well, we can beat Naga”, he stated. “As a defender, I do my job with a strong mind, and so I will be going into this final with determination.”

Khemara will hope their goalkepper Mak Theara can avoid injury as their reserve goalkeeper is not registered, making him ineligible to play. Also, they will hope Kuoch Sokumpheak can last the distance, as his presence seems to give Khemara the winning edge.

Khemara Keila’s David Adeyinka (right) and Nelson Oladiji will hope to turn in fine performances Saturday to overcome Naga Corp.

Omaraka integrates well

Joel Omaraka was the signing that was most interesting this year, coming into the heart of Khemara defence to bring some stability. Along with Preah Khan Reach, Khemara has the best defensive record in the regular season, letting in only 21 goals. Omaraka’s towering frame can also prove a threat to the opposition goal during set pieces, and his performance against the Naga forward line will be key to the success of Khemara Saturday.

“I thank God for the success I have achieved so far this season,” said the 18-year-old fullback. “We want to do our best for the fans by lifting the cup. I will be going all out to shut the doors against Naga attackers.”

With just 15 players to choose from, Ung Kanyarith has the numbers against him compared with a formidable Naga bench. However, the coach claimed fewer players make it easier to integrate them into a winning side. Saturday, Khemara will field five in the middle of the park, with diminutive David Adeyinka playing a supporting role.

Khemara scored twice against Preah Khan Reach in the semifinals with a speedy and powerful counterattack, and the Naga defence will need to be alert to this danger if they are to come out unscathed.

Hats off for the boss

Manager Salang Kang has done a tremendous job to maintain the club with severely limited funds from friends and supporters, after former sponsor Prince Norodom Ranariddh left for France. Fortunately, the signings he’s made have turned out to be wise investments, and most Khemara fans will respect his efforts, even if the team fail to clinch this year’s title.

Photos by Nick Sells (http://www.nicksellsphotography.com/)

Kids play for Peace One Day

About 80 local footballers representing four conflict-affected nations competed for the Peace One Day trophy in Battambang. Photo Supplied

(CAAI News Media)

Friday, 25 September 2009 15:00 SAM SCHWEINGRUBER

Youth organisation SALT Academy organised a football tourney in Battambang Monday to support the annual Peace One Day

ACROSS the globe Monday, activists celebrated Peace One Day to support nonviolence and cease-fire by organising special events. Though not directly saving lives, Battambang organisation SALT Academy didn’t want to miss out on the opportunity to join in a global initiative to help spread the message of place, and organised a local football event.

In front of Battambang restaurant “Vimean Riem”, chosen because of the flooding of local football fields, more than 80 players gathered to play for the Peace One Day trophy.

Four SALT Academy coaches were made presidents of either Iraq, Sudan, Mexico or Colombia, all nations affected by conflict. The presidents chose players to represent their countries, in either the U16 team, which included four female players, or the seniors team.

After the first round of games, the presidents invited all players to listen to the problems their country faces. Though many players knew about Iraq already, they have never heard of the problems confronting people of the Darfur region of Sudan, and hadn’t realised the implications of the drug wars in Colombia and Mexico. The pictures of the Darfur refuges especially touched people hearts, as Cambodia faced a similar situation many years ago – a few of the players were actually born in refugee camps in Thailand.

The second round of games saw Mexico and Colombia battling hard, displaying some of that infamous South American skill. Though the Colombian seniors team held the edge with a 2-1 win, their U16s stood no chance, losing 4-0. On the second field Iraq again failed to take good chances early in the game, and lost 6-3 to Sudan.

Players think about peace

During the second break, the teams had a time of talking among themselves about how they can be active agents of peace within their communities. The Sudan group decided that, despite having little money themselves, they could try to raise a little to help refugees from Darfur.

All four groups saw the importance of being role models, staying away from cheating, lying and harmful substances – which all would eventually lead to conflicts – and violence. “As football players, the younger kids look up to us”, said one of the senior players. “So we need to make sure, not only for our own sake but for that of the entire community, to be good people, have good morals, and obey the law.”

Another group suggested that poems or raps should feature in next year’s competition, with organisers entertained by the prospect.

In the third round of games, Colombia and Mexico managed to win their games comfortably, and with both teams topping the table with 13 points, Mexico were declared winners of the 2009 Peace One Day Cup thanks to their superior goal difference.

The organisers hoped that all the participants not only remembered the peaceful atmosphere and fun football, but will practice the message of peace in next year’s Peace One Day. Eight years ago, the 192 member states of the United Nations unanimously adopted September 21 as an International Day of Peace.

Scorpions sting HMS Darwin

Photo by: CNVLD

Kampong Speu Global Giving Scorpions captain Pin Sarath (left) collects the Armed Art trophy from Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Margaret Adamson Tuesday.

(CAAI News Media)

Friday, 25 September 2009 15:00 DAN RILEY

Cambodian disabled volleyball team Kampong Speu Global Giving Scorpions beat the Australian navy’s HMS Darwin side 3-0 in their annual friendly match

THE Kampong Speu Global Giving Scorpions took home the coveted CNVLD-ADF trophy after stinging the Australian navy’s HMAS Darwin team 3-0 in their annual volleyball match.

The Cambodia National Volleyball League (Disabled) again honoured the invitation to participate in the Royal Cambodian Navy-Australian Defence Forces sports afternoon Tuesday at Ream Naval Base, continuing a tradition that began in 2005 with the first ever match against the crew from the HMAS Adelaide.

Attended by the Admiral of the Royal Cambodian Navy and his senior officers, the Commander of the HMAS Darwin, the Australian Ambassador to Cambodia and the Australian military attaches to Cambodia office, the event was an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the fresh sea air.

The HMAS Darwin team arrived on the court looking like they meant business, dressed in their official team uniforms, with at least three players over 6 ft tall and a healthy row of substitutes. Never a team to buckle to nerves or appearance, the Scorpions quickly set about dissecting the Australian crew with a rapid succession of bullet velocity spikes.

Before HMAS Darwin could blink, the first set was crisply concluded 25-4. The Scorpions refused to let up on their esteemed visitors, and swiped the second set 25-9.

After a quick refreshment break and a healthy rotation of substitutes, the Aussies gelled and threatened to take the initiative as the early stages of the third set stayed neck and neck. But the Scorpions aren’t currently ranked second in the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League for nothing, and Pin Sarath’s domination at the net, ably assisted by veteran Phat Yoy, saw the Cambodians cruise through to victory 25-15.

The Cambodian Navy also fielded a volleyball team for the first time this year, and all were eager to test their skills against the visiting side. After their comprehensive defeat at the hands of Kampong Speu, the HMAS Darwin team recruited Pin Sarath, Phat Yoy and Im Phiream to bolster their numbers. The Navy team were determined to put up a spirited fight against the combined opposition, displaying great tenacity but losing out 25-23, much to the delight of the Australian players and supporters.

Later in the afternoon, the HMAS Darwin football team ground out a 2-1 victory over the Cambodian Navy to take home the Cambodian-ADF football trophy for the first time in the five-year history of the event.

Scorpions coach Pin Sarath was presented the unique Armed Art trophy, manufactured from destroyed weapons, by Australian Ambassador to Cambodia Margaret Adamson, and Australian Defence Attache Alan Lyons, and was also presented an honorary HMAS Darwin sports kit by the crew.

The event garnered considerable local media coverage, with TV crews from CTN, TV5, Bayon TV and TVK all in attendance. The CNVLD was also accompanied by a Finnish documentary film crew, who are making a 30 minute film on the organisation, focusing on the lives and athletic endeavours of the Kampong Speu Global Giving Scorpions team.

All eyes now turn to the fourth round of games from the 2009 Cellcard National Volleyball League, being played today and Saturday at Olympic Stadium. Places in the October 16 finals are still up for grabs, with Siem Reap Globe Eagles already guaranteed a grand final berth. Games begin at 8am on both days, entrance is free.

CAAI News Media; News in Picture

US Defense Secretary Robert Gates (R) welcomes Cambodian Defense Minister Gen. Tea Banh on September 21, 2009 at the Pentagon in Washington. AFP PHOTO/Tim Sloan (Photo credit should read TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images) CAAI News Media

Cambodian Defense Minister Gen. Tea Banh arrives at the Pentagon for talks with US Defense Secretary Robert Gates on September 21, 2009 in Washington. AFP PHOTO/Tim Sloan (Photo credit should read TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images) CAAI News Media

US Defense Secretary Robert Gates (R) welcomes Cambodian Defense Minister Gen. Tea Banh on September 21, 2009 at the Pentagon in Washington. AFP PHOTO/Tim Sloan (Photo credit should read TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images) CAAI News Media

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates (R) walks with Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Tea Bahn (2nd R) at the Pentagon in Washington September 21, 2009. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst (UNITED STATES POLITICS MILITARY) CAAI News Media

CAAI News Media; Cambodia in Pictures

Cambodians take a ferry across Tonle Sap river for work in Phnom Penh September 24, 2009. Cambodia's economy, one of the fastest growing in Southeast Asia just two years ago, will probably contract by about 2.75 percent this year, hit hard by the slowdown in the United States, the IMF said on Wednesday. "The global economic crisis is having a larger impact on Cambodia's economy than previously anticipated," David Cowen, deputy division chief for the International Monetary Fund's Asia and Pacific Department, told a news conference. (REUTERS/Chor Sokunthea). CAAI NEWS MEDIA

A Cambodian military police officer walks next to a damaged motorbike after a bus collided with the motorcycle on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Thursday, Sept. 24, 2009. The traffic accident on Thursday killed the motorcycle driver. Some passengers among 50 people were slightly injured, said local police officers. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith) CAAI NEWS MEDIA

Crowds of people watch a bus collided with a motorcycle on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Thursday, Sept. 24, 2009. The traffic accident on Thursday killed the motorcycle driver. Some passengers among 50 people were slightly injured, said local police officers. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith) CAAI NEWS MEDIA

Crowds of people watch a bus collided with a motorcycle on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Thursday, Sept. 24, 2009. The traffic accident on Thursday killed the motorcycle driver. Some passengers among 50 people were slightly injured, said local police officers. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith) CAAI NEWS MEDIA

A boy jumps into Tonle Basak river in front of the royal palace in Phnom Penh September 23, 2009. (REUTERS/Chor Sokunthea). CAAI NEWS MEDIA

Cambodia National Holidays: Constitution’s Day – Thursday, 24.9.2009

Posted on 25 September 2009

The Mirror, Vol. 13, No. 631

http://cambodiamirror.wordpress.com/

(CAAI News Media)

The public holidays of Cambodia as announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, designate 24 September is designated as “Constitution’s Day.”

At this occasion, access is made available to the text of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia, as presented on the website of the Embassy of Cambodia, Washington D.C., which points out: “It is not an official translation.” The following selections were made considering issues on which the Khmer press touched over the years. Still, the text presented here is much longer than a normal daily publication. While selecting sections of text, only full articles, or full paragraphs, have been omitted; all full sentences presented here, including wording and spelling, are kept as found in the source quoted.

CONSTITUTION OF THE KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA

PREAMBLE

WE, THE PEOPLE OF CAMBODIA, Having known a grand civilization of a prosperous, powerful, and glorious nation whose prestige radiates like a diamond,

Having endured sufferings and destructions and having experienced a tragic decline in the course of the two decades,

Having awakened, stood up with a resolute determination to strengthen the national unity, to preserve and defend Cambodia’s territory and its precious sovereignty and the prestige of Angkor civilization, and to restore Cambodia into an “Island of Peace” based on a multi-party liberal democratic regime with guaranteeing human rights and the respect of law, and responsible for the destiny of the nation always evolving toward progress, development, prosperity, and glory,

WITH THIS RESOLUTE WILL

We inscribe the following as the Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia:

CHAPTER I: SOVEREIGNTY

Article 1: Cambodia is a Kingdom with a King who shall rule according to the Constitution and to the principles of liberal democracy and pluralism.

The Kingdom of Cambodia shall be independent, sovereign, peaceful, permanently neutral and non-aligned country.

Article 2: The territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Cambodia, shall absolutely not to be violated within its borders as defined in the 1/100,000 scale map made between the year 1933-1953 and internationally recognized between the years 1963 – 1969.

Article 3: The Kingdom of Cambodia is an indivisible state.

Article 4: The motto of the Kingdom of Cambodia is: “Nation, Religion, King”.

Article 5: The official language and script are Khmer.

Article 6: Phnom Penh is the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

CHAPTER II: THE KING

Article 7: The King of Cambodia shall reign but shall not govern.

The King shall be the Head of State for life. The King shall be inviolable.

Article 8: The King of Cambodia shall be a symbol of unity and eternity of the nation.

The King shall be guarantor of the national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Cambodia, the protector of rights and freedom for all citizens and the guarantor of international treaties.

Article 11: In the case that the King cannot perform His normal duties as Head of State owing to His serious illness as certified by doctors chosen by the President of the Senate, the President of the Assembly and the Prime Minister the President of the Senate shall perform the duties of Head of state as “Regent.”

In the case of the President of the Senate cannot perform his duties as the acting Head of State replacing the King as “Regent” when he is ill seriously as provided in the above paragraph the President of Assembly shall take them over.

In the case as stated in the above paragraph, other dignitaries as following hierarchy can perform Acting Head of State as Regent:

A. First Vice-President of the Senate

B. First Vice-President of the Assembly

C. Second Vice-Presiednt of the Senate

D. Second Vice-President of the Assembly

Article 12: In case of the death of the King, the President of the Senate shall take over the responsibility as Acting Head of State in the capacity of Regent of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

In the case that the President of the Senate cannot perform his duties of the acting Head of State as “Regent” in the place of the King on the death of the King the responsibilities of Head of State in the capacity of regent shall be exercised in conformity with the second and third paragraph of new Article 11.

Article 17: The provision as stated in the first clause of Article 7, “the King of Cambodia shall reign but shall not govern”, absolutely shall not be amended.

Article 20: The King shall grant an audience twice a month to the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers to hear their reports on the State of the Nation.

Article 21: Upon Proposals by the Council of Ministers, the King shall sign decrees (Kret) appointing, transferring or ending the mission of high civil and military officials, ambassadors and Envoys Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.

Upon proposals by the Supreme Council of Magistracy, the King shall sign decrees (Kret) appointing, transferring or removing judges.

Article 23: The King is the Supreme Commander of the Royal Khmer Armed Forces. The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Khmer Armed Forces shall be appointed to command the Armed Forces.

Article 26: The King shall sign and ratify international treaties and conventions after a vote of approval by the National Assembly and the Senate.

Article 27: The King shall have the right to grant partial or complete amnesty.

Article 28: The King shall sign the law promulgating the Contstitution; laws adopted by the National Assembly and laws completely reviewed by the Senate and shall sign the Royal decree presented by the Council of Ministers.

Article 30: In the absence of the King, the President of the Senate shall assume the duties of acting Head of State.

In the case that the President of the Senate cannot perform his duties as the acting Head of State replacing the King due to his absence, the responsibilities as the Acting Head of State shall be exercised in conformity with second and third paragraph of new Article 11.

CHAPTER III: THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF KHMER CITIZENS

Article 31: The Kingdom of Cambodia shall recognize and respect human rights as stipulated in the United Nations Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human rights, the covenants and conventions related to human rights, women’s and children’s rights.

Every Khmer citizens shall be equal before the law, enjoying the same rights, freedom and fulfilling the same obligations regardless of race, color, sex, language, religious belief, political tendency, birth origin, social status, wealth or other status. The exercise of personal rights and freedom by any individual shall not adversely affect the rights and freedom of others. The exercise of such rights and freedom shall be in accordance with the law.

Article 32: Every Khmer citizen shall have the right to life, personal freedom, and security.

There shall be no capital punishment.

Article 35: Khmer citizens of either sex shall have the right to participate actively in the political, economic, social and cultural life of the nation.

Any suggestions from the people shall be given full consideration by the organs of the State.

Article 36: Khmer citizens of either sex shall receive equal pay for equal work.

The work by housewives in the home shall have the same value as what they can receive when working outside the home.

Every Khmer citizen shall have the right to obtain social security and other social benefits as determined by law.

Khmer citizens of either sex shall have the right to form and to be member of trade unions.

Article 37: The right to strike and to non-violent demonstration shall be implemented in the framework of a law.

Article 38: The law guarantees there shall be no physical abuse against any individual.

The law shall protect life, honor, and dignity of the citizens.

The prosecution, arrest, or detention of any person shall not be done except in accordance with the law.

Coercion, physical ill-treatment or any other mistreatment that imposes additional punishment on a detainee or prisoner shall be prohibited. Persons who commit, participate or conspire in such acts shall be punished according to the law.

Confessions obtained by physical or mental force shall not be admissible as evidence of guilt.

Any case of doubt, it shall be resolved in favor of the accused.

The accused shall be considered innocent until the court has judged finally on the case.

Article 39: Khmer citizens shall have the right to denounce, make complaints or file claims against any breach of the law by state and social organs or by members of such organs committed during the course of their duties. The settlement of complaints and claims shall be the competence of the courts.

Article 40: The rights to privacy of residence, and to the secrecy of correspondence by mail, telegram, fax, telex and telephone shall be guaranteed.

Any search of the house, material and body shall be in accordance with the law.

Article 41: Khmer citizens shall have freedom of expression, press, publication and assembly. No one shall exercise this right to infringe upon the rights of others, to effect the good traditions of the society, to violate public law and order and national security.

Article 42: Khmer Citizens shall have the right to establish associations and political parties. These rights shall be determined by law.

Khmer citizens may take part in mass organizations for mutual benefit to protect national achievement and social order.

Article 43: Khmer citizens of either sex shall have the right to freedom of belief.

Freedom of religious belief and worship shall be guaranteed by the State on the condition that such freedom does not affect other religious beliefs or violate public order and security.

Buddhism shall be the religion of the State.

Article 44: The right to confiscate properties from any person shall be exercised only in the public interest as provided for under the law and shall require fair and just compensation in advance.

Article 45: All forms of discrimination against women shall be abolished.

The exploitation of women in employment shall be prohibited.

Men and women are equal in all fields especially with respectt to marriage and family matters.

Marriage shall be conducted according to conditions determined by law based on the principle of mutual consent between one husband and one wife.

Article 46: The commerce of human beings, exploitation by prostitution and obscenity which affect the reputation of women shall be prohibited.

A woman shall not lose her job because of pregnancy. Woman shall have the right to take maternity leave with full pay and with no loss of seniority or other social benefits.

The state and society shall provide opportunities to women, especially to those living in rural areas without adequate social support, so they can get employment, medical care, and send their children to school, and to have decent living conditions.

Article 47: Parents shall have the duty to take care of and educate their children to become good citizens.

Children shall have the duty to take good care of their elderly mother and father according to Khmer traditions.

Article 48: The State shall protect the rights of children as stipulated in the Convention on Children, in particular, the right to life, education, protection during wartime, and from economic or sexual exploitation.

The State shall protect children from acts that are injurious to their educational opportunities, health and welfare.

CHAPTER IV: ON POLICY

Article 51: The Kingdom of Cambodia adopts a policy of Liberal Democracy and Pluralism.

The Cambodian people are the masters of their own country.

All power belongs to the people. The people exercise these powers through the National Assembly, The Senate, the Royal Government and the Judiciary.

The legislative, executive, and judicial powers shall be sepatrate.

CHAPTER V: ECONOMY

Article 56: The Kingdom of Cambodia shall adopt the market economy system.

Article 58: State property notably comprises land, mineral resources, mountains, sea, underwater, continental shelf, coastline, airspace, islands, rivers, canals, streams, lakes, forests, natural resources, economic and cultural centers, bases for national defense and other facilities determined as State property.

The control, use and management of State properties shall be determined by law.

Article 59: The State shall protect the environment and balance of abundant natural resources and establish a precise plan of management of land, water, air, wind, geology, ecological system, mines, energy, petrol and gas, rocks and sand, gems, forests and forestry products, wildlife, fish and aquatic resources.

CHAPTER VI EDUCATION, CULTURE, SOCIAL AFFAIRS

Article 65: The State shall protect and upgrade citizens’ rights to quality education at all levels and shall take necessary steps for quality education to reach all citizens.

Article 71: The perimeter of the national heritage sites as well as heritage that has been classified as world heritage, shall be considered neutral zones where there shall be no military activity.

Article 72: The health of the people shall be guaranteed. The State shall give full consideration to disease prevention and medical treatment. Poor citizens shall receive free medical consultation in public hospitals, infirmaries and maternities.

Article 75: The State shall establish a social security system for workers and employees.

CHAPTER VII: THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Article 76: The National Assembly consists of at least 120 members.

The deputies shall be elected by a free, universal, equal, direct and secret ballot.

Khmer citizens able to stand for election shall be the Khmer ctitizens of either sex who have the right to vote, at least 25 years of age, and who have Khmer nationality at birth.

Article 77: The deputies in the National Assembly shall represent the entire Khmer people, not only Khmers from their constituencies.

Any imperative mandate shall be nullified.

Article 79: The National Assembly mandate shall be incompatible with the holding of any active public function and of any membership in other institutions provided for in the Constitution, except when the assembly member(s) is (are) required to serve in the Royal Government.

Article 80: The deputies shall enjoy parliamentary immunity.

No assembly member shall be prosecuted, detained or arrested because of opinions expressed during the exercise of his (her) duties.

The accusation, arrest, or detention of an assembly member shall be made only with the permission of the National Assembly or by the Standing Committee of the National Assembly between sessionst, except in case of flagrante delicto. In that case, the competent authority shall immediately report to the National Assembly or to the Standing Committee for decision.

In any case, detention or prosecution of a deputy shall be suspended by a 3/4 majority vote of the National Assembly members.

Article 88: The National Assembly sessions shall be held in public.

The National Assembly shall meet in closed session at the request of the Chairman or of at least 1/10 of its members, of the King or of the Prime Minister.

Article 90: The National Assembly is an organ which has legislative power, and performs its duties as provided for in the constitution and laws.

The National Assembly shall approve the national budget, State planning, loans, financial contracts, and the creation, modification and annulment of tax.

Article 91: The members of the Senate, the members of the National Assembly and the Prime Minister have the right to initiate legislation.

Article 93: Any law approved by the assembly and finally reviewed by the Senate and signed by the King for its promulgation shall go into effect in Phnom Penh ten days after its signing and throughout the country twenty days after its signing.

Article 96: The National Assembly shall establish one day each week for questions and answers. There shall be no vote during any session reserved for this purpose.

CHAPTER VIII: THE SENATE

Article 99: The Senate is a body that has legislative power and performs its duties as determined in the constitution and law.

Article 100: The king shall nominate two Senators.

The Assembly shall elect two Senators by majority Vote.

Others shall be universally elected.

Article 103: The mandate of senators shall be incompatible with the holding of any active public function, with the functions of members of the National Assembly, and of any membership in other institutions provided for in the constitution.

Article 104: The Senator shall enjoy parliamentary immunity.

Article 111: The Senate sessions shall be held in public.

CHAPTER IX: THE ASSEMBLY AND THE SENATE

Article 116: In the special case, the Assembly and the Senate can assemble as the congress to resolve the important issues of the nation.

CHAPTER X: THE ROYAL GOVERNMENT

Article 118: The Council of Ministers is the Royal Government of Cambodia.

The Council of Ministers shall be led by one Prime Minister assisted by Deputy Prime Ministers, and by State Ministers, Ministers, and State Secretaries as members.

Article 120: The functions of members of the Royal Government shall be incompatible with professional activities in trade or industry and with the holding of any position in the public service.

Article 122: Members of the Royal Government shall not use the orders, written or verbal, of anyone as grounds to exonerate themselves from their responsibility.

CHAPTER XI: THE JUDICIARY

Article 128: The Judicial power shall be an independent power.

The Judiciary shall guarantee and uphold impartiality and protect the rights and freedoms of the citizens.

Article 129: Only judges shall have the right to adjudicate. A judge shall fulfill this duty with strict respect for the laws, wholeheartedly, and conscientiously.

Article 130: Judicial power shall not be granted to the legislative or executive branches.

Article 131: Only the Department of Public Prosecution shall have the right to file criminal suits.

Article 132: The King shall be the guarantor of the independence of the Judiciary. The Supreme Council of the Magistracy shall assist the King in this matter.

Article 133: Judges shall not be dismissed. The Supreme Council of the Magistracy shall take disciplinary actions against any delinquent judges.

Article 134: The Supreme Council of the Magistracy shall be chaired by the King. The King may appoint a representative to chair the Supreme Council of the Magistracy.

The Supreme Council of Magistracy shall meet under the chairmanship of the President of the Supreme Court or the General Prosecutor of the Supreme Court to decide on disciplinary actionts against judges or prosecutors.

CHAPTER XII: THE CONSTITUTIONAL COUNCIL

Article 136: The Constitutional Council shall have the duty to safeguard respect of the constitution, interpret the Constitution and laws adopted by the National Assembly and reviewed completely by the Senate.

Article 137: The Constitutional Council shall consist of nine members with a nine-year mandate. 1/3 of the members of the Council shall be replaced every three years. 3 members shall be appointed by the tKing, 3 members by the National Assembly and 3 others by the Supreme Council of the Magistracy.

Article 141: Khmer Citizens shall have the right to appeal against the constitutionality of any law through their representative or President of National Assembly or member of the Senate or President of the Senate as mentioned in the above articles.

CHAPTER XIII: THE ADMINISTRATION

Article 145: The territory of the Kingdom of Cambodia shall be divided into provinces and municipalities.

CHAPTER XIV: THE NATIONAL CONGRESS

Article 147: The National Congress shall enable the people to be directly informed on various matters of national interests and to raise issues and requests for the State authority to solve.

Khmer citizens of both sexes shall have the right to participate in the National Congress.

Article 148: The National Congress shall meet once a year in early December at the convocation of the Prime Minister.

It shall proceed under the chairmanship of the King.

Article 149: The National Congress adopts recommendations the Senate the National Assembly and to the Executive branch for reflection.

The organization and operation of the National Congress should be determined by law.

CHAPTER XV: EFFECTS, REVISIONS AND AMENDMENTS OF THE CONSTITUTION

Article 150: This Constitution shall be the Supreme law of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Article 153: Revision or amendment affecting the system of liberal and pluralistic democracy and the regime of Constitutional Monarchy shall be prohibited.

CHAPTER XVI: TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS

Article 154: This Constitution, after its adoption, shall be declared in full force immediately by the King of Cambodia.

Article 155: After the entry into force of this Constitution, the Constituent Assembly shall become the National Assembly.

Article 158: Laws and standard documents in Cambodia that safeguard State properties, rights, freedom and legal private properties and in conformity with the national interests, shall continue to be effective until altered or abrogated by new texts, except those provisions that are contrary to the spirit of this Constitution.

This Constitution was adopted by the Constitutional Assembly in Phnom Penh on 21 September 1993 at its 2nd Plenary session.

Phnom Penh, 21 September, 1993.

The President,

Signed: SON SAN

[[Revision statement]]

This Constitutional law was adopted by the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia on the 4th March, 1999 in its 2nd plenary meeting

Phnom Penh, 6 March 1999

National Assembly President

Norodom Ranariddh

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Protesting Students Barred From Marching

By Heng Reaksmey, VOA Khmer

Original report from Phnom Penh

24 September 2009

(CAAI News Media)

City authorities blocked protesting students from marching in the capital Thursday, as a two-week demonstration by medical students over entry exams continued.

Students of the University of Medicine Science say they have been arbitrarily excluded from the school, despite merited performances on entrance exams.

More than 100 police armed with electric batons and shields and supported by a water cannon stopped the march of the students, who planned to move from the university to the ministries of Health and Education and the office of Prime Minister Hun Sen.

No one was injured, officials and witnesses said.

“We didn’t close their freedom, but we should ban any unlawful protests,” said Brig. Gen. Touch Narath, chief of Phnom Penh police. “The protest was affecting public security, so police had to ban them.”

Moli Nich, a 19-year-old medical student and demonstrator said students were disappointed, as they had planned a peaceful protest.

“We think that this is unfair for us, because we were holding a non-violent demonstration, not destroying public property, so police should allow us to reach our goal,” she said.

Rong Chhun, president of the Cambodian Teachers Association, which led the protest, told reporters the banned demonstration was another sign of eroding freedoms.

“This shows that Cambodia is losing everything, such as the freedom of expression the rights of demonstrators,” he said. “I will lead the students in protest until we have a solution from the university.”

Thai Court Hands Hefty Sentences to 16 Cambodians

By Chun Sakada, VOA Khmer

Original report from Phnom Penh

24 September 2009

(CAAI News Media)

A provincial court in Thailand sentenced 16 Cambodians to lengthy prison terms Wednesday, for illegally entry and illegal logging on Thai soil, officials said Thursday.

Cambodian officials say the accused had not crossed into Thailand before they were arrested by Ubon provincial authorities.

The provincial court sentenced 15 of the accused to nine-year prison terms and another to six years and two months, the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Cambodia and Thailand are in a protracted border dispute, and Cambodian officials have accused Thai authorities of killing one Cambodian boy after an arrest earlier this month.

The group sentenced Wednesday were arrested in late July and comprised people living near Preah Vihear temple, which is at the center of a border dispute that has left seven soldiers dead and has continued for more than a year.

Cambodian officials say the group was on Cambodian soil, searching for wild honey and valuable timber.

Cambodian officials now have one month to lodge an appeal, said Koy Kong, a spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “Our lawyers are preparing the documents for the appeal.”

Wednesday’s hearing was attended by two independent lawyers, the Cambodian consul for Sras Keo province and officials from Preah Vihear province.

Kouch Sonnary, chief of the An Ses border pass, who joined Preah Vihear officials at the hearing, said the Cambodians had denied cutting logs and said they did understand the laws of Thailand and were unaware they had crossed a borderline.

Ros Heng, Choam Ksant district governor in Preah Vihear called the sentencing “unjust.”

“Thai authorities must guard clear border points, and the arrest was not made in a clear border area,” he said.

New UN resolution aims at nuclear-free world

US President Barack Obama(R) greets UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon as he arrives to chair a Security Council meeting at the United Nations headquarters in New York. World powers Thursday adopted a landmark resolution seeking to rid the planet of nuclear arms at an unprecedented Security Council summit hosted by President Obama. (AFP/Emmanuel Dunand)

By EDITH M. LEDERER, Associated Press Writer

(CAAI News Media)

UNITED NATIONS – With President Barack Obama presiding over a historic session, the U.N. Security Council unanimously approved a U.S.-sponsored resolution Thursday committing all nations to work for a nuclear weapons-free world.

Russia, China and developing nations supported the measure, giving it global clout and strong political backing.

The resolution calls for stepped up efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, promote disarmament and "reduce the risk of nuclear terrorism." It calls for better security for nuclear weapons materials and underscores the Security Council's intention to take action if such material or nuclear weapons get into the hands of terrorists.

The resolution consolidated many elements previously endorsed individually in the Security Council or other international forums. But bringing them together in a single document, voted on by global leaders, should add political momentum to efforts to achieve these goals, particularly at important conferences next year on nuclear security and on strengthening the Nonproliferation Treaty.

It was only the fifth time the Security Council met at summit level since the U.N. was founded in 1945 and 14 of the 15 chairs around the council's horseshoe-shaped table were filled by presidents and prime ministers. Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi's name was on the U.N.-circulated list as attending but he was a no-show. Libya's U.N. ambassador spoke for his country.

The U.S. holds the rotating council presidency this month and Obama was the first American president to preside over a Security Council summit, gaveling the meeting into session and announcing that "the draft resolution has been adopted unanimously."

"The historic resolution we just adopted enshrines our shared commitment to a goal of a world without nuclear weapons," Obama said immediately after the vote. "And it brings Security Council agreement on a broad framework for action to reduce nuclear dangers as we work toward that goal."

Just one nuclear weapon set off in a major city — "be it New York or Moscow, Tokyo or Beijing, London or Paris" — could kill hundreds of thousands of people and cause major destruction, Obama said.

The council endorsed a global effort to "lock down all vulnerable nuclear materials within four years" and the president announced that the United States will host an April summit to advance compliance and assist all nations in achieving the goal.

The resolution does not mention any country by name but it reaffirms previous Security Council resolutions that imposed sanctions on Iran and North Korea for their nuclear activities. It does not call for any new sanctions.

The resolution "expresses particular concern at the current major challenges to the nonproliferation regime that the Security Council has acted upon."

"This is not about singling out an individual nation," Obama said. "International law is not an empty promise, and treaties must be enforced."

But Obama, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and French President Nicolas Sarkozy all identified North Korea, which has tested nuclear weapons, and Iran, suspected of harboring weapon plans, as obstacles to a safer world.

Sarkozy sharply criticized both countries for ignoring Security Council resolutions calling on them to cease such activities.

"We may all be threatened one day by a neighbor, by a neighbor endowing itself" with nuclear weapons, he said.

"What I believe is that if we have the courage to affirm and impose sanctions on those who violate resolutions of the Security Council we will be lending credibility to our commitment to a world with fewer nuclear weapons and ultimately with no nuclear weapons," Sarkozy said.

The British leader called on the council to consider "far tougher sanctions" against Iran.

Iran's U.N. Mission issued a statement calling allegations about its nuclear program "totally untrue and without any foundation," insisting it is pursuing nuclear power as an alternative source of energy "to supply its booming population and rapid development."

Iran called French claims "preposterous" and accused Britain of "deliberately and cynically" ignoring its legal commitments to take practical steps to eliminate nuclear weapons but did not mention the United States by name.

Diplomats from Iran are scheduled to hold talks on Oct. 1 with the U.S., Britain, France, Russia, China and Germany.

The Iranian statement reiterates the country's "readiness to engage in serious and constructive negotiations with interested parties, based on respect, justice, rights of nations and collective commitments, aimed at reaching a framework for cooperative relationships." But it said that to achieve success in future negotiations the six countries should abandon "futile and illegal demands of the past years" that include suspending Iran's enrichment program.

Obama said the resolution reflects the nuclear agenda he outlined in his April speech in Prague when he declared his commitment to "a world without nuclear weapons."

The president called in that speech for the slashing of U.S. and Russian nuclear arsenals, adoption of the treaty banning all nuclear tests, an international fuel bank to better safeguard nuclear material, and negotiations on a new treaty that "verifiably" ends the production of fissile materials for atomic weapons.

He also strongly backed the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, or NPT, which requires signatory nations not to pursue nuclear weapons in exchange for a commitment by the five nuclear powers to move toward nuclear disarmament. States without nuclear weapons are guaranteed access to peaceful nuclear technology for electricity generation.

All those measures are included in the draft resolution.

The resolution suggests that the Security Council consider taking firmer actions in the case of a country withdrawing from the NPT — as North Korea did — and stresses that countries that pull out are responsible for all violations before withdrawal.

Iran in its statement reaffirmed its commitment to the NPT, saying it takes its responsibilities under the treaty "seriously."

In its opening paragraph, the resolution reaffirms the council's commitment "to seek a safer world for all and to create the conditions for a world without nuclear weapons."

Obama warned Thursday against violations of the NPT saying, "We must demonstrate that international law is not an empty promise, and that treaties will be enforced."

But global differences remain.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said that "our main shared goal is to untie the problem knots" among nations seeking nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament.

"This is complicated since the level of mistrust among nations remains too high, but it must be done," he said.

Chinese President Hu Jintao focused on a late addition to Thursday's resolution: a call for all nuclear-weapon states to commit to "no first use" of those weapons, and to not using them against non-nuclear states. China has long proclaimed such a policy, which the U.S. has never embraced.

"All nuclear-weapon states should make an unequivocal commitment of unconditionally not using or threatening to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear-weapon states," Hu said.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon saluted the national leaders for joining in the unprecedented Security Council summit on nuclear arms.

"This is a historic moment, a moment offering a fresh start toward a new future," he said.

Among the invited guests were U.N. nuclear chief Mohamed ElBaradei, former U.S. Secretaries of State Henry Kissinger and George Shultz, former U.S. Defense Secretary William Perry, media mogul Ted Turner, former U.S. Senator Sam Nunn and Queen Noor of Jordan — all campaigners against nuclear weapons.

Nunn, a Georgia Democrat who heads the Nuclear Threat Initiative, a Washington-based group designed to fight the global spread of nuclear materials, said the most important thing about the resolution "is the high-level visibility that will be taking place ... with world leaders gathering to remind both themselves and the world that we are at a nuclear tipping point."

As Obama left the Security Council chamber, he told the Associated Press: "It was an excellent day."

___

Associated Press Writers John Heilprin and Charles Hanley contributed to this report from the United Nations.