UNITED NATIONS, April 8 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday highlighted the role of mine action in advancing and underpinning durable solutions to conflict.
"Mine action is an essential first step towards peace and stability," the UN chief told the Security Council Ministerial Open Debate on Mine Action.
"Deminers are often the first to enter cities and villages after ceasefires, clearing schools and hospitals, or allowing for critical repairs to water or sanitation infrastructure," he said. "Mine action enables the safe and voluntary return of refugees and internally displaced persons."
"Mine action can support political and peace processes," said the top UN official, noting that this has been seen in Darfur and Libya.
"In Colombia, mine action has facilitated the reintegration of former combatants, offering a pathway to civilian life," he said.
The UN chief called for efforts to "maximize the opportunities that mine action affords us."
"Whether clearing roads to farmland, routes to alternative youth employment, or access to services for victims and persons with disabilities, mine action can lay the groundwork for sustainable development and inclusion," he noted.
On the threat of explosive ordnance, the secretary-general said that "we need increased political will and cooperation to prevent and respond to the threat."
"More than 160 states are party to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention," said Guterres, adding that "I call on those that have not yet acceded to the convention to do so without delay."
"Mine action means working on prevention, to end the threat at its source. It means clearing contaminated land to save lives and enable recovery," said the secretary-general.
"Ultimately, mine action is a national responsibility," the UN chief stressed.
"I welcome efforts by many member states to integrate mine action into their development plans and budgets," he added. "But political will at the national level must be complemented by partnerships and cooperation at the local, regional and international levels."
"Strong cooperation is needed among governments, the United Nations, international and civil society organizations," said Guterres. Enditem
