Martin Kelly, U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) in Colombo, visited a Mines Advisory Group engaged in demining sites to take firsthand account of the painstaking measures undertaken to clear explosive hazards in the area and speak with a team of female deminers.

The $5.5 million US-funded project is providing funds this fiscal year for clearance activities to promote the safety and security of local residents, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo said in a statement. 

“Clearing these deadly devices takes skill, patience, and bravery,” DCM Kelly was quoted as saying by Colombopage. “The women deminers defy stereotypes of appropriate gender roles while at the same time performing a courageous service in the rebuilding of their communities. We're grateful for their contributions to helping Sri Lanka become mine-free.”

He also met with representatives of local and international clearance partners, including the Delvon Association for Social Harmony (DASH), Skavita Humanitarian Assistance and Relief Project (SHARP), HALO Trust, and MAG. 

During his visit, He also had a positive and productive meeting with the National Mine Action Center at the Regional Mine Action Office in Kilinochchi.