Mikhalko: EU is Azerbaijan's main partner in demining territories

The European Union is a global leader responsible for mine action and a major partner of Azerbaijan in this area, EU Ambassador to Azerbaijan Peter Michalko said at the 2nd International Conference on 'Mine Action - The Path To Reaching Sustainable Development Goals,' according to Report.

He said landmines continue to claim lives. The envoy also expressed condolences to their families. The EU is also strengthening the cooperation of member countries to increase assistance and funding to Azerbaijan in mine clearance, he said.

He noted that mine action is also supported by ANAMA and various NGOs.

Mine clearance implies that there will be no new minefields, and in this regard, the Ottawa Mine Ban Treaty should be taken into account, Michalko said, adding that mine action is also very important for the return of internally displaced people to their homes. He noted that the EU is also exploring the opportunity for participation in the restoration of these territories in the future.