The Cartagena Summit presents an opportunity to bring to life the theme of this conference – a shared commitment. This shared commitment has been demonstrated by over ten years of efforts to implement the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention. In Cartagena, States, working hand in hand with civil society organizations and other entities, will have a chance to renew this commitment. They can do so by ensuring that individuals, families and communities affected by landmines can participate fully in and benefit from the social, cultural, economic and political development of their countries.

 

Meeting in Colombia will illustrate that, while thanks to a shared commitment much has been achieved, much more work remains to be done to end the suffering and casualties caused by anti-personnel mines. Over a decade of efforts to implement the Convention has shown that an end to the landmine era is within sight. However, clearing mined areas and assisting the victims remain relevant today in many countries around the world. Strengthening a shared commitment at the Cartegena Summit will help ensure that vital work continues.