As a special event held alongside the Sri Lanka National Mine Action Completion Strategy Review, the National Mine Action Centre (NMAC), in collaboration with the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD), organized a Mine Action Partner Meeting on 16 June 2026 at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo. The meeting focused on the future direction of Sri Lanka’s mine action programme and the continued support of the United States Department of State’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA).

The meeting was moderated by Mr. Keith Clark, PM/WRA Sri Lanka Programme Manager, together with Ms. Åsa Massleberg, Programme Manager and Senior Advisor – Strategic Planning, GICHD. Representatives from NMAC, humanitarian mine action operators, GICHD, and other key stakeholders participated in discussions on funding priorities, strategic planning, and the way forward for Sri Lanka’s mine action programme.

During the meeting, PM/WRA reaffirmed its strong commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s Mine Action Programme, announcing an estimated USD 8.5 million in assistance for 2026, with the intention of continuing support for a further two years, subject to annual approvals. This commitment will directly support the implementation of the Sri Lanka National Mine Action Completion Strategy (2023–2027) and assist the country in fulfilling its obligations under Article 5 of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (APMBC).

PM/WRA emphasized the importance of maintaining a unified and coordinated approach among all mine action operators during the final phase of Sri Lanka’s clearance programme. The meeting encouraged all implementing partners to work collaboratively, maximize the effective use of available resources, and align operational priorities with the national completion strategy to achieve the shared goal of a mine-safe Sri Lanka.

The discussions also highlighted the continued strategic partnership between PM/WRA, GICHD, and NMAC, including ongoing technical assistance in strategic planning, information management, and strengthening national capacity to support evidence-based decision-making and sustainable programme management.

Participating organizations shared their achievements, operational challenges, and priorities for the coming years, while jointly identifying critical actions required to accelerate land release and ensure the successful completion of Sri Lanka’s mine action programme.

The meeting concluded by reaffirming the strong partnership between the Government of Sri Lanka, PM/WRA, GICHD, and humanitarian mine action operators, demonstrating a shared commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s journey towards becoming a mine-safe nation through sustained international cooperation, effective coordination, and strong national leadership.