As part of the Regional High-Level Dialogue on Enhancing Regional Cooperation and Resource Mobilization in Mine/ERW Action

15 Dec
As part of the Regional High-Level Dialogue on Enhancing Regional Cooperation and Resource Mobilization in Mine/ERW Action, Plenary Session 2 brought together ASEAN Member States, Dialogue Partners, and international organisations for a strategic dialogue on advancing cooperation and innovation toward a mine-free and resilient ASEAN.
The session was moderated by H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), who guided a constructive exchange centred on ASEAN solidarity, innovation, and shared responsibility.
A key highlight from the presentation by Ms. Yan Run, Second Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, who shared China’s extensive experience in humanitarian mine action. The presentation highlighted China’s long-standing commitment to capacity building and professional training, tailored equipment and technology support, a people-centred approach to victim assistance, and the value of South–South cooperation with ASEAN.
The plenary brought together expertise from both mine-affected and non-affected ASEAN Member States, as well as partners beyond the region. The panel discussion featured senior representatives and technical leaders, including:
• H.E. Mr. Shaharuddin bin Onn, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Kingdom of Cambodia
• Mr. Le Quang Hop, Deputy Director General, Viet Nam National Mine Action Centre (VNMAC)
• Mr. Elnur Gasimov, Senior Official, Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA)
• Mr. Steinar Essen, Global Mine Action and Development Advisor, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Panelists shared national and global perspectives, reinforcing the importance of regional learning, cross-regional cooperation, innovation, and long-term partnerships in addressing mine/ERW challenges.
Key themes emerging from the session included:
  • Mine/ERW action as a critical enabler of regional peace, security, and sustainable development
  • The importance of strong national ownership, supported by regional coordination, with ARMAC serving as a key ASEAN platform
  •  The role of innovation, technology, and information management in accelerating clearance and strengthening victim assistance
  •  The need for inclusive partnerships and diversified, sustainable financing to support long-term progress toward a mine-free ASEAN
The session concluded with a strong sense of shared purpose — reaffirming that progress toward a mine-free ASEAN depends on collective action, trusted partnerships, and sustained commitment. ARMAC extends its sincere appreciation to all speakers and panelists, and expresses deep gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China for its continued partnership and support in making this Dialogue possible.
The full Plenary Session 2 Summary Report is available on the ARMAC website: www.aseanmineaction.org
Together, we turn shared responsibility into safer futures.
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