A high-level meeting was chaired today (June 8, 2026) by the Hon. Minister of Housing, Construction, and Water Supply, Dr. Susil Ranasinghe, at the Ministry premises to review the progress of Sri Lanka’s National Mine Action Programme

​The discussion was joined by Mr. Keith D. Clark, Program Manager of the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA), and Mr. Patrick Collins, Political Officer of the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka.

​ Key Highlights of the Discussion:

​Transition & Completion Plans: As Sri Lanka moves closer to achieving a mine-impact-free status, the meeting focused on future transition strategies and final phase completion plans.

​ A Longstanding Partnership: Since 2002, PM/WRA has been the primary international donor supporting Sri Lanka’s demining efforts. By helping clear nearly 1 million landmines and explosive remnants of war, U.S. assistance has been instrumental in creating the conditions for the safe return and resettlement of more than 1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs).

​LKR 12.5 Million IT Donation: To boost data management and operational efficiency, IT equipment worth over LKR 12.5 million was officially handed over to the National Mine Action Center (NMAC) and its regional offices.

​$8.5 Million Commitment for 2026: To support the 2023–2027 Mine Action Completion Strategy, the U.S. PM/WRA reaffirmed its commitment by pledging approximately USD 8.5 million for 2026, with plans to extend support for another two years (subject to annual approvals).

​Sri Lanka remains deeply committed to achieving a mine-free status through data-driven, strategic operations, ensuring safe lands for communities and future development.

​The meeting was also attended by the Ministry Secretary / National Director of NMAC, Additional Secretary of the Ministry, Deputy Director of NMAC, IM Advisor GICHD/NMAC, representatives from the U.S. Embassy, demining operators, and key stakeholders.

​#Srilanka #USA #NMAC #Development #SafetyFirst #SusilRanasinghe