Jean Jack Cortez, Chairman of the National Mine Agency of Angola, expressed his gratitude and shared valuable insights to Ednews TV during his participation in the 3rd International Conference on Mine Action in Baku. The conference, themed “Mitigating Environmental Impact of Landmines: Resource Mobilization for Safe and Green Future,” has drawn global attention.
"About the visit here in Azerbaijan, we would like first to thank the Azerbaijani government for the invitation. This is the second time that I'm participating in this kind of conference. It has been a very good experience," Cortez stated. He highlighted the enriching exchange of diverse cultural perspectives, noting its significance in addressing the global landmine issue.
Cortez drew parallels between Azerbaijan and Angola, emphasizing the similar histories of landmine impacts in both countries. "As we have seen the impact on landmines, we do still recall our country. We have a similar history," he remarked. He emphasized that the lessons learned at the conference would be invaluable for Angola's own efforts in landmine clearance and management.
Reflecting on Angola's prolonged struggle with landmines, Cortez said, "Our country was also affected by landmines for almost 45 years. The way our country, the mining was laid down, didn't obey any pattern, no maps, no sketches." He detailed Angola's current demining efforts, which involve using various methodologies to identify and clear minefields without damaging the environment.
"Our challenge is to control all mine-affected areas, demolitions, and to control the demolition not to affect the soil, the environment," Cortez explained. He praised the use of technical surveys and area cancellations to efficiently identify and clear minefields.
Cortez concluded by emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and knowledge exchange. "The Azerbaijan experience, it is like other experience too. We are learning some lessons that will be good for us," he stated, acknowledging the value of the shared experiences and methodologies discussed at the conference.
The conference continues to provide a platform for global leaders and experts to collaborate on mitigating the environmental impact of landmines and promoting a safer, greener future.
