MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Smith
Today, Australia together with the international community recognises International Day for Mine Awareness and Action.
Landmines, cluster munitions and other explosive remnants of war pose a real threat in many countries, harming and killing innocent civilians and delaying development.
In December 2009, Australia was an active participant in the Cartagena Summit on a Mine-Free World. During the Summit, the international community reaffirmed its commitment to end the suffering caused by mines and strengthen efforts to overcome remaining challenges.
Through our Mine Action Strategy announced in November last year, Australia continues to support affected developing countries, particularly in the Asia Pacific region.
Australia's assistance is focused on reducing deaths and injuries, improving the lives of victims and building the capacity of countries to manage their mine action programs.
Today I announce Australia will provide over $10 million for mine awareness and action in Laos, Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon.
Laos remains heavily contaminated by cluster munitions. Australia will contribute $2.7 million to help Laos with the removal of unexploded ordnance.
This contribution will also assist Laos to host the first meeting of States Parties to the Convention on Cluster Munitions in November this year.
In Iraq, Australia will provide $6 million to help clear 24 million square metres of land, deliver rehabilitation services for victims and educate communities about the risk of mines.
Australia will also contribute $1 million to the northern border landmine clearance project in Jordan, $500,000 to support the removal of unexploded ordnance in Lebanon, and $500,000 to the International Committee of the Red Cross Special Fund for the Disabled, which supports rehabilitation projects for people affected by conflict, including landmine victims.
Australia is a longstanding supporter of mine action, having contributed more than $175 million over the past 12 years to assist affected countries and communities.
Australia is firmly committed to working towards a world free from landmines, cluster munitions and other explosive remnants of war.