US-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce hails mine detecting skills of canines in liberated territories

On International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, the United States-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce (USACC) has presented the remarkable achievements of the courageous canines sponsored through various USACC programs.

MDD Hüner

In the agricultural regions of Jabrayıl, Fuzuli, and Zangilan, MDD Hüner and his dedicated handler have tirelessly worked over the past two years. With his exceptional sniffing skills, MDD Hüner, alongside his fellow K9s, successfully detected and located over 300 explosive remnants of war, including multiple anti-personnel mines. MDD Hüner has emerged as a pivotal figure in ANAMA's mission to restore agricultural lands in Azerbaijan. His efforts in 2022 and 2023 alone have directly impacted the safety of over 1,300 individuals, Mine Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan – ANAMA said, Caliber.Az reports.

MDD Max

In Fuzuli, Zangilan, Tartar, and Aghdam districts, MDD Max utilized his keen sense of smell to detect landmines along railways. His contributions led to the discovery and removal of 101 unexploded ordnance and explosive remnants of war, directly benefiting over 200 people. Moreover, MDD Max's efforts facilitated safe travel and transportation of goods along railways, restoring over 500,000 square meters of land for public use.

MDD Birinji

Operating in Aghdam, Jabrayıl, Fuzuli, Zangilan, and Gubadli districts, MDD Birinji played a crucial role in railway clearance efforts. His diligent work resulted in the clearance of more than 445,000 square meters of land in 2023, directly benefiting nearly 100 individuals. Thanks to MDD Birinji's contributions, railcars can now traverse these regions without the looming threat of mines.

As we commemorate April 4, we are reminded once again of the pervasive threat of landmines and their devastating impact on lives and economies. Azerbaijan, particularly, grapples with significant landmine contamination, endangering civilian safety and impeding the productive use of vast swathes of land.

USACC acknowledges the invaluable humanitarian work of the Marshall Legacy Institute (MLI) and calls on all those who stand for a landmine-free world to familiarize themselves with the incredible work of these lifesaving canines.