Mine problem hinders reconstruction in Karabakh Azerbaijani deputy ombudsman says

The mine problem is impeding both peace and reconstruction work in Karabakh, Deputy Head of the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) Office of Azerbaijan Rashid Rumzada said.

Rumzada made the remarks at the international forum “Healthy environment and mine-free life to achieve sustainable development goals”, organized by the Agency for State Support of Non-Governmental Organizations, Report informs.

He noted that in order to restore the infrastructure in Karabakh, its territory must be completely cleared of mines.

“This requires serious effort, many years and finances. Unfortunately, the attitude of the international community to this issue is not adequate,” Rumzada stressed.

Addressing the event, head of the UN Resident Coordinator's Office in Azerbaijan Kanako Mabuchi said that the UN will support Azerbaijan in demining.

"We support the activity of ANAMA, we will spare no effort in the field of demining. Because demining the territories of Azerbaijan is important for nature and development. The UN and the government of Azerbaijan work together in this field. There is a lot of work to be done," she said.

Meanwhile, EU Ambassador to Azerbaijan Peter Michalko said that people in Azerbaijan should live free of the horrible danger that the landmines represent.

"Very sad to learn that another ANAMA deminer was heavily injured by a landmine explosion. People in Azerbaijan should live free of the horrible danger that the landmines represent. The EU will continue to support Azerbaijan in the effort to eliminate all landmines," he wrote in a post on the social network X.

Very sad to learn that another #ANAMA deminer was heavily injured by a landmine explosion. People in Azerbaijan should live free of the horrible danger that the landmines represent. The EU🇪🇺 will continue to support 🇦🇿Azerbaijan in the effort to eliminate all landmines.

— Peter Michalko (@MichalkoPeter) December 6, 2023