Azerbaijan is implementing large-scale restoration and reconstruction projects in areas contaminated with landmines and is working in close cooperation with civil society institutions throughout this process.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that these remarks were made by Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, during the event titled "NGO Forum: Global Partnerships and Decision-Making."
Highlighting that the Global South NGO Platform, established within the framework of COP29, is already becoming a successful international initiative, the Presidential Assistant stated: "The General Assembly of this platform was established this year, and I look forward to the future of this initiative with great hope. Challenges related to cities—rapid urbanization, population growth, and climate change—are already on the agenda of all states. Azerbaijan is also experiencing the impacts of climate change."
Emphasizing that Azerbaijan is a country with ancient urban planning traditions, Hajiyev added: "Cities like ancient Gabala have historically been centers of trade, science, cooperation, and culture. Today, one of the main challenges is the preservation of cultural heritage alongside the development of modern cities."
The mine clearance process remains a top priority for the Republic of Azerbaijan as part of the "Great Return" program, aimed at resettling internally displaced persons in the liberated territories of Garabagh and East Zangazur. Since the end of the 44-day war in 2020, Azerbaijan has faced a massive challenge due to the hundreds of thousands of mines planted in these regions. The involvement of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international partners is seen as a critical component in accelerating the demining process and ensuring the safety of returning civilians.
