The European Union is not only one of the donors of demining activities in Azerbaijan, but also one of the global leaders in this field.
Modern.az reports that this was stated by Marijana Kujundzic, Head of the European Union Delegation to Azerbaijan, Ambassador, at an event titled “Reconstruction of cities after conflict: the crucial role of humanitarian mine clearance” within the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku.
She noted that, as one of the world's largest donors, the European Union supports the transformation of dangerous war zones into safe areas, from the Western Balkans to Colombia, from post-conflict regions to areas that have recently experienced war.
“Our activities turn a deadly legacy into an opportunity for recovery, reconstruction, and the revival of community life.
A few days ago, I visited the liberated territories. There I saw the devastating consequences of the war. But at the same time, I saw great potential and hope. I saw the facilities already built there, the work done, and how life was returning.”
She also emphasized that bringing life back is not an easy process:
“Mine clearance work in Croatia was only fully completed this year. This happened 31 years after the war. However, the mine problem in Croatia was not as extensive as in Karabakh.
This shows that the process is very long-term. But this work must be done, and the European Union is ready to provide support in this direction.”
According to her, in addition to Azerbaijan's great efforts in the field of demining, the European Union also contributes.
“This is not just about the European Union. Two years ago, the “Team Europe” approach was adopted. Within the framework of this approach, the financing of the European Union, the funds of member states, and the resources of European financial institutions are directed to demining activities in Azerbaijan.
The European Union supports ensuring safe, dignified, and voluntary return, as well as creating safe access for people to natural resources.”
M. Kujundzic also added that the European Union also pays special attention to the application of a gender approach in the field of demining and supported the creation of the first women's demining team in Azerbaijan:
“In addition, some interesting projects have been implemented here. For example, specially trained rats were used in demining operations.
In all cases, we try to bring the best practices and professional approaches to the region. For this purpose, partner organizations with extensive experience in humanitarian demining from Europe are involved.
Currently, negotiations are underway on a large project with the International Trust Fund for Enhancing Human Security, located in Slovenia.
This project envisages strengthening human security, providing operational equipment, and assisting mine victims, including the provision of specially equipped ambulance vehicles. The project is expected to be signed and implemented soon.”
She recalled that this commitment was made during the European Commissioner's visit to Azerbaijan in September last year:
“During that visit, the liberated territories were also visited.
The need for support in this area is still very great, and the European Union is ready to continue its support within the framework of the “Team Europe” approach.
We have also allocated 10 million euros for the purchase of demining equipment and the establishment of the International Center of Excellence for Mine Action. Currently, the total support allocated within the framework of the “Team Europe” initiative has reached 22 million euros. This center will play the role of a knowledge and experience sharing platform for both the region and Europe in the future.
At the same time, the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development are also involved in the process.”
She also noted that Azerbaijan will greatly benefit from the mobilization of state and private investments:
“This will allow for faster return of lands to use and acceleration of the reconstruction process.
For this purpose, the integration of mine action into the green and sustainable development strategy is extremely important. This issue becomes even more relevant, especially in the context of COP29 and the World Urban Forum we are currently participating in.
Mine clearance should be accepted as a prerequisite for attracting investments to contaminated areas. This activity is an important catalyst for sustainable economic development, prosperity, and peace,” she added.
