Syria Launches Workshop to Establish a National Mine Action Center in Partnership with the Red Cross

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing community security and national recovery, the Syrian Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management, in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross, launched a workshop at the Dama Rose Hotel in Damascus to discuss the establishment of a national mine action center, with broad participation from local and international entities.

The workshop, which will last for three days, addresses the challenges posed by the spread of landmines and unexploded ordnance in several Syrian areas, and the constant threat they pose to civilian lives and community stability. Participants emphasize that establishing the national mine action center represents a national priority given the urgent need to address the effects of war.

Participants stressed the importance of building effective partnerships between national authorities and international and local organizations, aiming to unify efforts and develop joint mechanisms for surveying, clearance, and awareness, contributing to achieving a safe and mine-free Syria.

During his speech at the workshop's opening, the Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management, Raed Saleh, confirmed that Syria has paid a heavy price due to the widespread presence of landmines, noting that the workshop serves as a platform for dialogue, experience exchange, and setting priorities for the next phase. He added that the center will undertake tasks related to technical surveying, mine clearance, and raising awareness of their dangers, in coordination with local and international partners.

Fadi Saleh, tasked with preparing for the center's launch, clarified that its primary mission will be to coordinate and unify national efforts in planning and implementing mine clearance programs, alongside providing support to victims and cooperating with relevant entities to develop related policies and procedures.

For his part, the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross mission in Syria, Stefan Sakalian, confirmed that the committee continues to support communities affected by conflicts, noting that landmines and war remnants have caused significant human losses and hindered recovery efforts. He explained that establishing the national center will contribute to improving coordination among relevant parties and developing effective plans for war contamination clearance.

William Carmichael, a weapons contamination coordinator at the committee, pointed out that the workshop provides an opportunity for experience exchange and identifying the type of support needed, whether through training, field support, or technical advice, ensuring that the center can perform its tasks efficiently according to international standards.

The workshop activities will continue over the next two days, with the participation of local and international organizations, aiming to reach practical outcomes that pave the way for the official announcement of the establishment of the national mine action center, as a pivotal step towards enhancing stability and rebuilding affected communities.