From June 15 to 18, intersessional meetings of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention are being held in Geneva. As emphasized in the statements delivered by the Italian delegation participating in the meetings, one of the main objectives at this stage is to ensure support for and continuity of the Siem Reap–Angkor Action Plan 2025–2029.
Italy highlighted its role in international cooperation activities and assistance to victims of anti-personnel mines, and confirmed that its support will continue in 2026 in areas and regions particularly affected by landmines, starting with Ukraine.
Italy also reiterated the importance of a comprehensive approach to mine action that integrates mine clearance, risk education, victim assistance, and the strengthening of national capacities, while promoting effective partnerships among donor countries, affected states, and specialized organizations.
Particular attention was devoted to victim assistance, regarded as an essential component of the implementation of the Convention. In this context, Italy reaffirmed its support for initiatives aimed at ensuring survivors’ full access to medical care, rehabilitation, and social and economic inclusion, in accordance with the principles of non-discrimination and participation.
In a particularly complex global context, the intersessional meetings also celebrated a major achievement by Croatia, which has officially become mine-free after a thirty-year demining effort, as well as the recent accession of Lebanon as a State Party to the Convention.
