On October 11, the 1st International donor conference on humanitarian demining of Ukraine was held in Zagreb. During the conference, the minister of economy of Ukraine spoke with the federal councillor for foreign affairs of Switzerland, Ignazio Cassis. We remind you that Mr Cassis has been to Ukraine more than once and has seen the scale of the humanitarian catastrophe in our country. The total area of Ukraine is 603.628 km², of which more than 174.000 km² is mined. It is impossible to live or build a business in such conditions. According to the Ukrainian government portal, Switzerland has announced its intention to finance humanitarian demining in Ukraine for 4 years. The project cost exceeds €100 million.
Ukraine already has a mine clearance plan, and first of all, specialists will clear critical infrastructure (energy hubs, factories, railways, etc.) and gas pipelines from the consequences of the war. Next — residential buildings, where after the war will return Ukrainians. The third stage of the program will be demining agricultural lands. Last but not least are forests and water areas.
Mr Cassis expressed hope that the 2nd IDCHD of Ukraine will be held in Switzerland.
