Blog

22 Jul
The ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) had the privilege of welcoming H.E Mr. Elnur Mammadov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, to its headquarters in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, 22 July 2025 – In a significant step toward strengthening inter-regional collaboration in humanitarian mine action, the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) had the privilege of welcoming H.E Mr. Elnur Mammadov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, to its headquarters in Phnom Penh. He was accompanied by H.E Mr. Shovgi Kamal Oglu Mehdizade, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom of Cambodia, Lao PDR and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, H.E. Ambassador Jalal Mirzayev, Head of Asia and Pacific Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The high-level engagement marked a continuation of the positive momentum initiated during the 2024 study visit hosted by ARMAC, where the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) visited ASEAN Member States to observe best practices in explosive ordnance (EO) management. The visit exemplified ARMAC’s commitment to South-South cooperation, fostering mutual learning among countries with shared post-conflict challenges.
The discussions reaffirmed ARMAC’s mission to support regional and global mine action efforts, in line with the ASEAN Political-Security Community Blueprint 2025. Both parties exchanged insights on the importance of research and development, innovation, and the integration of emerging technologies to improve the efficiency and safety of mine clearance operations.
“ARMAC reaffirms its dedication to fostering regional and international partnerships that not only enhance technical capacity but also promote sustainable peace and development,” stated Ms. Buth Rothna, Executive Director of ARMAC. “We are pleased to witness growing momentum for intercontinental collaboration, and we look forward to continued engagement with Azerbaijan as a key partner in this endeavor.”
Echoing this sentiment, H.E. Mr. Elnur Mammadov shared: “We deeply appreciate ARMAC’s leadership in mine action and their generous facilitation of knowledge-sharing platforms. Azerbaijan is determined to invest in the institutional strengthening of its mine action capacity, and we view ARMAC as a pivotal partner in this journey. The shared experiences of ASEAN countries provide invaluable lessons for our own post-conflict recovery.”
The meeting also addressed the potential for future cooperation in joint research initiatives, the establishment of technical dialogues, and the promotion of region-to-region knowledge exchanges. As a center of excellence, ARMAC continues to serve as a critical platform for experience sharing and dialogue, reinforcing its role in advancing regional peace, security, and sustainable development.
This engagement underscores a shared vision between ASEAN and Azerbaijan to collaborate across borders and leverage collective expertise in the pursuit of a mine-free future.
For media inquiries:
Secretariat@aseanmineaction.org
19 Jun
It was an honour for ARMAC to meet H.E. Mr. LEE Jang-keun, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to ASEAN, during our recent mission in Jakarta.
It was an honour for ARMAC to meet H.E. Mr. LEE Jang-keun, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to ASEAN, during our recent mission in Jakarta.
We express our sincere gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Korea for their enduring support through the ASEAN–Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF).
Since 2021, the Republic of Korea has generously committed over USD 2 million to our “Enhance Victim Assistance Programmes in ASEAN Member States” initiative—supporting survivors of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW) in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam.
This partnership is more than a project—it reflects shared values of dignity, resilience, and inclusivity.
Together, we work to ensure that communities affected by past conflicts are not left behind and have the support they need to heal and thrive.
During our dialogue, we reviewed our shared progress, emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, and discussed upcoming initiatives, including a documentary to amplify the voices of survivors and raise regional awareness.
We deeply appreciate the Republic of Korea’s continued partnership in promoting humanitarian mine action and inclusive development across ASEAN.
18 Jun
ARMAC had the great honour of meeting with H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta
ARMAC had the great honour of meeting with H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta.
During this inspiring exchange, we reflected on ARMAC’s regional role in addressing the humanitarian impact of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW) across ASEAN. As a Centre of excellence under the ASEAN Political–Security Community (APSC) pillar, ARMAC remains committed to contributing to ASEAN’s peace, security, and community-building goals.
H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn’s visionary leadership and thoughtful guidance provided valuable direction for ARMAC’s current and future work. His emphasis on inclusive, people-oriented approaches, in line with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, reinforces our shared goal of building a UXO-free, resilient, and unified ASEAN—an ASEAN One where no one is left behind.
ARMAC expresses its deepest appreciation to H.E. the Secretary-General for his steadfast support and inspiration as we continue working together toward a Mine/UXO free and dignified future for all.
18 Jun
ARMAC was honored to meet with H.E. Mr. KIYA Masahiko, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN
ARMAC was honored to meet with H.E. Mr. KIYA Masahiko, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN, to further strengthen our partnership and explore future collaboration in support of humanitarian mine action and regional resilience.
We deeply appreciate the Government of Japan’s steadfast support through the Japan–ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF), and its continued commitment to peace, security, and sustainable development in ASEAN.
We look forward to the opportunity of welcoming H.E. Ambassador Kiya to the ARMAC Regional Centre in Phnom Penh, kingdom of Cambodia in the near future.
17 Jun
Strengthening Regional Mine Action Cooperation with China!
Strengthening Regional Mine Action Cooperation with China!
This morning in Jakarta, Indonesia, we were grateful to meet with Mr. Wang Daohao, Counsellor at the Mission of the People’s Republic of China to ASEAN, to advance our collaboration on the upcoming project: “Enhancing Operational Capacity in Mine/ERW Action through Provision of Essential Equipment in ASEAN Member States.”
The discussion reaffirmed our shared commitment to supporting mine-affected communities across the ASEAN region through practical, high-impact cooperation. This initiative reflects the strong and growing partnership between the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) and the People’s Republic of China in promoting peace, safety, and sustainable development.
We sincerely value the continued support from the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) and the Mission of China to ASEAN, and we look forward to the meaningful impact this collaboration will bring.
Together, we are clearing the path to peace and development in ASEAN.
We are excited to move this impactful initiative into action!
17 Jun
ARMAC’s Executive Director had the honour of meeting H.E. Heng Sarith, Ambassador of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Cambodia to ASEAN, at the Cambodian Embassy.
Jakarta, Indonesia – This afternoon, ARMAC’s Executive Director had the honour of meeting H.E. Heng Sarith, Ambassador of the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Cambodia to ASEAN, at the Cambodian Embassy.
This meeting was a meaningful occasion to extend our sincere appreciation to the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) for its steadfast support. As ARMAC’s host country and a founding advocate of our mission, Cambodia’s leadership continues to be pivotal to our work.
Thanks to this enduring support, ARMAC is empowered to function as a regional centre of excellence—promoting humanitarian mine action, advancing victim assistance, and fostering stronger regional cooperation in ASEAN.
Operating from Phnom Penh, we proudly carry forward this mission, rooted in Cambodia’s deep experience and commitment to addressing the legacy of landmines and explosive remnants of war.
Together, we remain united in building a mine-free, resilient, and inclusive ASEAN.
17 Jun
In Jakarta, ARMAC Executive Director Ms. Buth Rothna met with H.E. Ms. Ina Lepel Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Indonesia, ASEAN, and Timor-Leste, at the German Embassy
This afternoon in Jakarta, ARMAC Executive Director Ms. Buth Rothna met with H.E. Ms. Ina Lepel, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Indonesia, ASEAN, and Timor-Leste, at the German Embassy.
The meeting was an opportunity to convey ARMAC’s sincere appreciation for Federal Government of the Federal Republic of Germany’s longstanding support for humanitarian mine action, peacebuilding, and regional cooperation across ASEAN.
Discussions focused on future collaboration opportunities—including ongoing engagement with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)—to enhance mine action efforts and reinforce regional safety, sustainability, and resilience.
ARMAC is committed to strengthening partnerships that advance our shared goal: a mine-free, inclusive, and secure ASEAN.
08 Jun
Towards a Mine-Free ASEAN: Cambodia Leads the Way
Towards a Mine-Free ASEAN: Cambodia Leads the Way
Today, ARMAC was honored to participate in the High-Level Dialogue on Mine Action with Donors and Development Partners in Phnom Penh.
Our Executive Director delivered heartfelt remarks celebrating Cambodia’s extraordinary strides in mine action and reaffirming ARMAC’s commitment to a mine-free ASEAN.
Under the visionary leadership of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Cambodia has declared 15 provinces mine-free and released nearly 700 km² of land since 2022. This is not merely about statistics—it is about lives saved, communities revived, and futures reclaimed.
We commend the strategic stewardship of Senior Minister Dr. Ly Thuch and the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), whose model of coordination and innovation stands as a regional exemplar.
Cambodia’s unprecedented national ownership—funding over 80% of ARMAC’s operations—has empowered our center to drive regional coordination, cross-border victim assistance, and innovation in mine action.
ARMAC remains deeply committed to expanding this success across the region.
With Cambodia lighting the path, we move forward with purpose, unity, and determination toward our shared 2030 vision.
Together, we can achieve a mine-free future.
06 Apr
A Fitting Conclusion to Our Vietnam Mission: Championing Victim Assistance and Regional Solidarity
A Fitting Conclusion to Our Vietnam Mission: Championing Victim Assistance and Regional Solidarity
As our mission across Vietnam concludes, ARMAC had the honor of visiting the Rehabilitation Center at Bach Mai Hospital in Hanoi.
Hosted by the Director of the Center, we witnessed firsthand the transformative care being provided to survivors of explosive ordnance (EO).
From physical rehabilitation to psychosocial support, the center embodies the values of compassion, resilience, and dignity that are at the core of ARMAC’s mission.
This visit reaffirmed our shared commitment to victim assistance—a key component of humanitarian mine action and one of the priorities in ARMAC’s Strategic Framework 2023–2027 .
It also underscored the importance of regional cooperation in building capacity and delivering integrated support services that help survivors regain independence and live with dignity.
Earlier in the journey, we engaged with communities and survivors in Quang Binh, Quang Tri, and Hue provinces. These meaningful exchanges deepened our understanding of the ongoing needs for physical and mental rehabilitation across affected areas and highlighted the importance of inclusive and sustainable development.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our key Vietnamese partners—the Vietnam Association for Supporting UXO/Mine Action Efforts (VNASMA) and the Vietnam National Mine Action Center (VNMAC)—for their generous hospitality and steadfast support.
Special thanks as well to the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF) for their unwavering backing of this initiative, which exemplifies how ASEAN partnerships can drive transformative change.
We are also deeply grateful to our project collaborators—SingHealth (Singapore), the Peace Sharing Association (PSA), and Yonsei University (South Korea)—whose expertise and dedication continue to enhance the quality and impact of our victim assistance efforts across ASEAN.
This mission represents more than a series of site visits—it marks a shared journey of learning, solidarity, and action. As we return, we carry forward the insights, relationships, and renewed commitment to our vision: a mine-free ASEAN where no one is left behind.
Together, we advance peace, dignity, and resilience in the region.
03 Apr
Heading to Hanoi for the National Consultative Workshop!
Heading to Hanoi for the National Consultative Workshop!
Our team is on the move and heading to Hanoi for the National Consultative Workshop on Physical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Needs for Explosive Ordnance (EO) Victims tomorrow. Before we depart to Hanoi, we’re wrapping up our visit to Thua Thien Hue Province, where we’ve been meeting with EO victims and engaging with local stakeholders to assess their rehabilitation needs and mental health support.
We had an insightful focus group discussion with EO victims, including inspiring survivors such as a national athlete and a professional singer. Their stories of strength and resilience are truly moving.
We also had the privilege of meeting a survivor at his home to learn more about his daily life and the challenges he faces as he works toward reintegration.
As we conclude this phase of our study, we’re looking forward to tomorrow’s National Consultative Workshop in Hanoi, where we’ll bring together experts, stakeholders, and government officials to discuss how we can further improve victim assistance efforts across ASEAN.
We are grateful for the support from VNMAC, VNASMA, and our key partners: SingHealth, Yonsei University, and especially for the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF) for walking alongside us on this journey. Together, we are strengthening victim assistance frameworks in Vietnam and the entire ASEAN region.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue this important work.
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