On January 11 partners in the Lithuanian-led Demining Coalition of Ukraine gathered at the Ministry of National Defence: representatives of the countries which joined the coalition or expressed interest to do so discussed coalition plans and work ahead with representatives of the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
“This is the first work meeting of the coalition which we aimed to use for refining Ukraine’s requirements in the area of mine clearance and the concrete contributions each coalition partner state could bring. It is a very welcome fact that besides Lithuania and Ukraine 19 other countries attended in person and 6 more joined digitally. It is a demonstration of the unity of intent between the coalition partners to not only respond to urgent needs but also to support development of demining capabilities for Ukraine in the long-term,” says Defence Policy Director of the Ministry Of National Defence Dr Vaidotas Urbelis.
The Lithuanian-led Demining Coalition of Ukraine is formed aiming to consolidate and coordinate the present and prospective donor assistance to Ukraine concerning demining.
An assistance fund is established to further the coalition objectives, including acquisition of the technical means and equipment necessary to carry out demining in the territory of Ukraine.
The Lithuanian-led coalition will assist Ukraine in both military and humanitarian mine clearance.
Photo credit: MoD / Private Recruit K. Kavolėlis
