Sixteen years after the end of Sri Lanka’s war, landmines continue to pose a threat to communities in the Northern and Eastern provinces, with around 23 square kilometers of land still contaminated and inaccessible.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, addressing a Donor Coordination and Appreciation Ceremony in Colombo today (May 2), stressed that the removal of landmines is a national imperative, not just a humanitarian task. She said the process is essential to restoring dignity, livelihoods, and peaceful living conditions for affected communities.
“Clearing landmines is crucial to reopening schools, allowing children to play safely, and helping farmers return to their lands without fear,” she said, adding that the government is committed to meeting its obligations under the international treaty to clear all landmines by June 2028.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing, also featured the launch of the National Mine Action Center (NMAC) website and recognized donor countries for their ongoing support.
The Prime Minister called for continued international assistance, highlighting that mine clearance is key to revitalizing the local economy and ensuring environmental sustainability in former conflict areas. (Newswire)