Dilijan, Armenia – October 10, 2025 — Today, a special humanitarian mine action awareness event was held in Dilijan, Tavush region, bringing together national and local stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to building safer, more resilient communities across Armenia. 

Organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Armenia in partnership with the Centre for Humanitarian Demining and Expertise (CHDE), the event spotlighted the critical role of mine risk education and community engagement in advancing public safety.

Natia Natsvlishvili, UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia, Narek Ghushchyan, Deputy Governor of Tavush region, Vaghinak Sargsyan, CHDE Director, Davit Sargsyan, Head of Dilijan community, welcomed the event participants, including, representatives of the Government of Armenia, local authorities, the UN Country Team, media, and local beneficiaries. 

“This anniversary is not only a celebration of UNDP’s longstanding partnership with the Government and people of Armenia, but also a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to sustainable development and community safety. Together with our partners in Tavush and across the country, we are working to ensure that every community is empowered, resilient, and free from the threat of landmines. We are deeply grateful for the strong cooperation with the CHDE and the Office of Tavush Governor and look forward to continuing our joint efforts for a safer Armenia,” said Natia Natsvlishvili, UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia.

Narek Ghushchyan, Deputy Governor of Tavush region said, “We are honored to host this important event in Dilijan and to celebrate three decades of impactful partnership with UNDP. The focus on humanitarian mine action is especially meaningful for our region, as it directly contributes to the safety and well-being of our communities. We value the ongoing collaboration with UNDP and all partners dedicated to building a better future for Tavush and Armenia as a whole.” 

“Humanitarian mine action is a vital step toward ensuring the safety and prosperity of our communities. Through our partnership with UNDP and local authorities, we are able to provide life-saving education and practical solutions that make a real difference on the ground. This event is an opportunity to showcase our joint achievements and renew our commitment to a mine-free and resilient Armenia,” said Vaghinak Sargsyan, CHDE Director.

The initiative featured interactive exercises and awareness sessions led by CHDE, aimed at educating local beneficiaries on mine and explosive ordnance risks. The event also served as a platform to showcase collaborative achievements and practical solutions that have made a tangible impact on the ground. 

Held in conjunction with UNDP’s 30th anniversary in Armenia, the event underscored the organization’s longstanding partnership with the Government and people of Armenia. The event also featured the presentation of the film “Stepping Through Change: 30 Years of UNDP in Armenia” on UNDP achievements in Armenia.