Azerbaijan Expands Demining Operations in Liberated Territories: Working Group Visits Jabrayil and Lachin

The Working Group on the removal of mines and unexploded ordnance, operating under the Interdepartmental Center of the Coordination Headquarters in Azerbaijan, has begun a critical visit to the Jabrayil and Lachin districts. The group's efforts are part of a larger, ongoing mission to facilitate the safe return of displaced populations to the liberated territories following the Second Karabakh War.

Members of the Working Group were able to personally observe the progress of the demining teams, starting with operations in the Jabrayil district. Key sites, such as the villages of Jojug Marjanli and Sarijalli, were included in the tour, emphasizing the strategic importance of these locations in the broader rehabilitation efforts.

The demining initiative, which has so far cleared around 156,000 hectares of land, represents one of the most extensive demining operations in Azerbaijan’s history. According to Vugar Suleymanov, Chairman of the Board of ANAMA, the agency has detected and neutralized more than 151,000 mines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) in these territories. "The challenge remains significant, but the progress we have made is encouraging," Suleymanov told reporters. "Our teams are working tirelessly, with 377 groups actively conducting search and clearance operations."

The demining campaign, a critical aspect of Azerbaijan's post-conflict recovery plan, has not been without casualties. Since the start of operations, 69 people have died, and 377 have been injured by mines and UXO. Despite these risks, Azerbaijan remains committed to restoring safety in the liberated territories, which are crucial for the country’s long-term economic recovery and the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

As part of the visit, the Working Group will hold its next meeting in Lachin, a region that holds symbolic and strategic significance for Azerbaijan. This area, once a key stronghold during the conflict, is now witnessing renewed efforts to ensure its reconstruction and reintegration into the country’s economic structure.

Demining is seen as the cornerstone of the broader initiative to restore these regions, paving the way for future investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism. As demining operations continue, Azerbaijan aims to gradually restore control over the region, ensuring a safe environment for its population.