The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Turkey’s strong support to countries combating the threat of mines will continue.

In a written statement regarding the “April 4 World Mine Awareness and Mine Action Support Day,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted Turkey’s ongoing robust and resolute support to countries dealing with the threat of mines both on land and at sea, as well as on international platforms. The statement reminded that the United Nations General Assembly designated April 4 as the “World Mine Awareness and Mine Action Support Day” to raise awareness on the dangers of mines and unexploded ordnance. Turkey was recognized for its significant and tangible contributions to global and regional efforts in combating land and sea mines. The statement underscored Turkey’s support for the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of antipersonnel mines.

The Ministry highlighted that mines and unexploded ordnances pose serious threats to human security in many countries, negatively impacting socio-economic development and cultural heritage. It was noted that countries like Afghanistan, where mine contamination has posed a serious security threat for a long time, continue to face challenges, along with Azerbaijan, which still has numerous undiscovered mines in territories liberated from occupation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, “Turkey’s strong and resolute support to countries combatting the threat of mines on land and at sea, as well as on international platforms, will persist.”