6 Jun 2018

Cambodia says only one refugee from Nauru remains

4:41 pm on 6 June 2018

Cambodia's Interior Ministry says only one refugee from Nauru remains in the country after resettling there under a deal with Australia.

The Khmer Times reported ministry spokesperson Khieu Sopheak saying since the deal was struck in 2014 only several refugees decided to come.

A refugee (3rd R) held under Australian custody in the Central Pacific island of Nauru is escorted by Cambodian police following his arrival at the Phnom Penh International airport on June 4, 2015.

A refugee, (in hoodie), held under Australian custody in Nauru is escorted by Cambodian police following his arrival at the Phnom Penh International airport in 2015 Photo: TANG CHHIN SOTHY / AFP

General Sopheak said the deal to resettle refugees detained by Australia on Nauru comes to an end in August.

He said Cambodia's government would review the deal and consider extending it at the request of Australia.

The agreement was criticised by rights groups who said Cambodia had a weak record of protecting refugees and resettling migrants.

They also accused Australia of failing to meet its international obligations, by deporting asylum seekers.