CAIRO: The Untied Nations Information Center (UNIC) in Cairo celebrated the International day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action this week, emphasizing in the process the importance of combining development work with de-mining projects. Ambassador Fathy El-Shazly, national program director for the De-mining and Development of the Egyptian North West Coast, highlighted the integrated approach of "De-mining for Development "adopted by the project in cooperation with the UN represented by the UNDP of Egypt and the Egyptian government represented by the Ministry of International Cooperation. El-Shazly stressed the strategic importance of the project and the opportunities it could provide in supporting the country's development. The government, according to El-Shazly, has allocated approximately LE 60 billion for this project, in a plan that will offer 348, 000 employment opportunities. The North West Coast and its desert hinterland is an area endowed with many natural assets that are able to attract investments in tourism and leisure, agriculture or industry. Nevertheless the presence of 16.7 millions World War II remnant mines and unexploded ordnance over a large area of about 248,000 hectares hinders the development of the region. It also endangers the lives of the area's inhabitants. According to the military, land mines have caused over 700 deaths and left 76,000 injured in the area since 1982. The project's main objective is to clear the remaining landmines and UXOs to pave the way for other objectives such as fostering the region economic performance, improving the living conditions of its population and preserving its natural and cultural assets. UNIC's Director Maher Nasser said that the UN de-mining strategy goes beyond mere technical de-mining activities, to include landmines education and awareness, providing protection and assistance to citizens and victims especially those vulnerable such as women and children, advocating a mine free world, encouraging the implementation of international treaties and conventions, and supporting countries in meeting their international commitments as well as fostering international cooperation. Nasser said that 14 UN departments, agencies, funds and programs join efforts within an inter-agency strategy to provide help to countries in this regard. -UNIC
