Mine action and food security: results of the Ministry of Economy delegation's visit to Syria

Mine action and food security: results of the Ministry of Economy delegation's visit to Syria. The delegation visited Syria to study the country's experience in mine action and to explore opportunities for sharing Ukraine's own expertise.

"Syria and Ukraine face similar challenges — large-scale mine contamination that threatens people's lives and hampers economic recovery. Our visit was an opportunity to learn from Syria's experience and to share our own innovations and approaches," said Ihor Bezkaravainyi, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine.

The delegation met with Syrian government officials, international organisations operating in the country, and local mine action operators. Discussions focused on the nexus between mine action and food security — a topic of particular relevance for both countries.

"Both Syria and Ukraine are countries where mine contamination directly affects agricultural production and food security. The parallels are striking, and the opportunity for mutual learning is significant," noted the delegation member.

The visit included observations of demining operations, discussions on regulatory frameworks, and exchanges on innovative approaches. The Ukrainian delegation presented Ukraine's experience in creating a competitive market for demining services and the agricultural land compensation programme.

"International cooperation in mine action is not limited to traditional donor-recipient relationships. Countries with similar challenges can learn from each other and develop joint solutions," emphasised the Deputy Minister.