Today, on the International Mine Awareness Day, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) has commended Estonia for its contribution to the mine action activities in areas liberated from Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
“We are pleased to receive an additional contribution from the Republic of Estonia, which will undoubtedly support the critical work of UNMAS and contribute to better coordination and delivery of critical emergency response to explosive hazards.” Mr. Pehr Lodhammar, Senior Programme Manager of UNMAS Iraq stated. In February, Estonia allocated additional €24,000 for UNMAS. From 2016-2018, Estonia has contributed €73,000 in support of mine action activities in areas liberated from Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
“Demining activities are necessary and costly and require international cooperation” Foreign Minister Sven Mikser said confirming Estonia’s future support for UNMAS. “UNMAS helps to restore safety in areas of conflict so that civilians can return home,” he added.
Mikser emphasised the importance of raising awareness among locals and helping the victims of explosives and praised UNMAS for its dedication.
Since 2004, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia has donated €160,000 to UNMAS, making Estonia one of the biggest contributors from central and eastern Europe.
*UNMAS ehk United Nations Mine Action Service, additional information www.mineaction.org/unmas
Additional information:
Sandra Kamilova
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Communication Department
56675362
[email protected]