The 4th International Mine Action Conference in Baku has focused on the critical role of humanitarian demining in facilitating the restoration and safe habitation of liberated territories. Elchin Amirbayov, Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Special Assignments, emphasized that while active hostilities have ceased, the threat posed by landmines remains a significant barrier to lasting peace.
"The core message is straightforward: as long as the physical remnants of war continue to threaten human lives, restrict mobility, hinder economic activity, delay the return of internally displaced persons, and impede the normalization of interstate relations, peace cannot be considered fully established," Amirbayov stated during his address.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Amirbayov stressed that for Azerbaijan, the silence of artillery does not mean the silence of mines. Consequently, humanitarian demining has evolved from a purely humanitarian task into a fundamental pillar of peacebuilding. He noted that the UN Peacebuilding Commission recently recognized mine action as a vital factor enabling reconciliation and reconstruction, asserting that peace cannot be built on insecure land.
Reflecting on diplomatic progress, Amirbayov highlighted the historic steps taken on August 8, 2025, in Washington, where Azerbaijan and Armenia reached a significant milestone. The text of a peace agreement was initialed by the foreign ministers, and the leaders signed the Washington Joint Declaration, outlining a vision for a future free from the constraints of past conflict.
"Since the Washington meeting, a de facto state of peace has existed, with no military escalation between the countries. Dialogue between governments and civil societies has continued, trade and economic ties are emerging, and work on connectivity and transport projects is progressing," he added. However, Amirbayov concluded that while political agreements are essential, true peace must be tangible on the ground, and currently, one of the greatest obstacles to this reality in Azerbaijan lies hidden beneath the soil.
The International Mine Action Conference in Baku serves as a global platform for experts, government officials, and international organizations to discuss strategies for accelerating demining efforts, sharing technological innovations, and addressing the socio-economic impacts of explosive remnants of war in post-conflict regions.
