Prime Minister (PM) Harini Amarasuriya stated that the removal of landmines in the Northern and Eastern provinces not only constitute the elimination of physical threats but also address a national imperative to restore the peaceful living conditions of the people.

The PM conveyed this at the Donor Coordination and Appreciation Ceremony organised by the Ministry of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing, held yesterday (2) at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo.

According to the PM’s Office, approximately 23 square km of land in the Northern and Eastern provinces remain inaccessible due to landmines as of now. 

The Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) is committed to clearing these areas by 1 June 2028, in accordance with Article 5 of the Ottawa Convention. 

During the event, an official website of the National Mine Action Center (NMAC) was also launched by the officials present.