EU backs Azerbaijan’s strategy linking demining to reconstruction, return

The European Union strongly supports Azerbaijan’s approach of linking demining efforts with the restoration of territories, the return of residents and long-term regional development, EU Ambassador to Azerbaijan Marijana Kujundžić said.

Speaking at the 4th International Conference on Mine Action in Baku, Kujundžić said Azerbaijan’s experience offered important lessons not only on the scale of mine contamination, but also on linking demining operations with reconstruction and the safe return of people, local media reports.

“This is a comprehensive effort in which continued international cooperation remains critically important. The European Union strongly supports this approach,” she said.

Kujundžić said the EU’s total collective support for Azerbaijan in the field of demining had reached €22 million.

“Together with the member states, through the Team Europe initiative, the European Union is committed to helping create a safe and mine-free environment for the population, as well as supporting sustainable development across the region,” the diplomat said.

By Aghakazim Guliyev