A law requiring Cambodian males aged 18 to 25 to serve in the military for two years has gained Cabinet approval following two spates of deadly combat with neighbouring Thailand last year.
The new draft law on conscription will replace an existing law dating from 2006 that was never implemented and no longer addresses current and future needs, a government spokesperson said on Friday.
The existing law specified 30 as the maximum call-up age.
Women will be allowed to serve on a voluntary basis.
Spokesperson Pen Bona said the draft law, with eight chapters and 20 articles, was adopted by the Cabinet at its meeting on Thursday.
A government statement described military service as an essential duty and a great honour allowing the Cambodian people to contribute to national development and defend the motherland. — AP
