The conference, which will span two days, aims to bring attention to our country's current landmine issue on a global scale, showcase global innovative technologies in humanitarian demining, and strengthen international collaboration in this field.

The 2nd international workshop hosted by Azerbaijan has gathered representatives from over 25 countries, including international organizations active in demining, more than 100 representatives from operational and manufacturing companies, as well as government officials and accredited diplomatic corps representatives in our country.

In his opening speech at the conference, Vugar Suleymanov, the Chairman of the Board of the Mıne Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, highlighted the scale of the existing landmine problem in our country. He emphasized that the landmines and explosive remnants of war continue to pose serious challenges to the sustainable development of liberated territories, the well-being of people, and the environment. Vugar Suleymanov called for closer collaboration, exchange of knowledge and experiences, and global efforts to create a world free from the threat of landmines.

Rufat Mammadov, the Head of the Office of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, stressed the importance of the conference in evaluating the capabilities of international demining institutions, sharing experiences and results in this field, overcoming challenges, and improving collaboration.

Vladanka Andreeva, the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations, highlighted the significance of finding continuous innovative approaches, effective use of technology, and sharing the best practices among countries affected by landmines in the ongoing effort to combat the threat of mines. She emphasized that in Azerbaijan, there are opportunities for increasing collaboration and international support in the direction of mine action, which is crucial for continuous development and peace.

After the official opening segment of the 2nd technical conference on demining in our country, a ceremony was held to present certificates to members of the first female deminers’ teams in Azerbaijan. This initiative is financed by the European Union and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme, the Mine Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ANAMA), the International Eurasia Press Fund, and the Mines Advisory Group (MAG).

Throughout the conference, panel discussions were conducted on topics such as the latest innovations in the research process of demining, the environmental impact of mine threats and demining activities, data management, and the application of modern technologies in the Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) direction.

A exhibition featuring products from operational agencies and manufacturing companies is also being showcased within the framework of the event.

The second day of the conference will continue with presentations and panel discussions by participating institutions.