BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 20. Colombian digital
media outlet ZonaCero has published an article highlighting
Azerbaijan’s large-scale humanitarian demining efforts and the
challenges posed by landmine contamination, Trend reports.
The article titled “Azerbaijan and the Challenge of Mines: A
Cause Demanding Greater International Solidarity” notes that around
11,667 square kilometers, or 13.4 percent of Azerbaijan’s
territory, remain contaminated with landmines and unexploded
ordnance as a result of nearly three decades of occupation.
According to the publication, since the end of the 2020 war, 258
mine-related incidents have been recorded in Azerbaijan, leaving
420 victims, including women and children. Overall, more than 3,400
people have reportedly been affected by mines over the past 30
years.
ZonaCero emphasized Azerbaijan’s progress in demining under the
leadership of the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action
(ANAMA). The article states that more than 260,000 hectares have
already been cleared of mines and explosive remnants of war.
The Colombian outlet also drew attention to the impact of mines
on the return of internally displaced persons and stressed the
importance of greater international solidarity and cooperation in
addressing humanitarian mine action challenges.
The publication further noted that Azerbaijan contributes to
international humanitarian demining initiatives, including support
for Ukraine through technical assistance, equipment donations, and
specialized training.
In addition, the article pointed to similarities between
Azerbaijan and Colombia in facing the threat of antipersonnel
mines, noting that the issue has encouraged bilateral contacts
aimed at exploring cooperation in this field.
