Damascus, April 13 (SANA) Syrian authorities on Monday held a workshop with international partners to advance a national strategy for mine clearance and the removal of unexploded ordnance, underscoring the ongoing risks posed by war remnants.
The three-day workshop, organized by the Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management in cooperation with the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD), brought together stakeholders to develop a coordinated framework for mine action in Syria.
Participants discussed priorities for clearance operations, challenges facing demining efforts, data management for contaminated areas and ways to improve public awareness of explosive hazards, as part of broader efforts to enhance community safety and support reconstruction.
Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management Raed al-Saleh said mines and unexploded ordnance remain a major obstacle to recovery and investment, citing their widespread presence and the lack of accurate mapping. He noted that more than 60% of agricultural land is currently unusable due to contamination, while progress in clearance operations remains limited.
GICHD adviser Asa Massleberg said the workshop provides an opportunity to draw on international expertise and align it with national priorities, emphasizing the need for a practical, data-driven strategy.
Fadi al-Saleh, director of the National Mine Action Center, said the discussions aim to launch a participatory process to develop a national plan that improves coordination among stakeholders and addresses priority needs.
Mine contamination continues to affect key sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure and the return of displaced people, highlighting the need for sustained efforts to mitigate risks and support long-term recovery.
M.Q.R
