17 former U.S. ambassadors urged the restoration of U.S.-funded demining efforts in Southeast Asia, which have been halted by a 90-day aid suspension imposed by President Trump. They emphasize the importance of these programs for regional safety, economic benefits, and U.S. national security. The letter warns that further disruption could have dire consequences for local communities still affected by unexploded ordnance.
A letter from 17 former U.S. ambassadors, including five who served in Vietnam from 2001 to 2014, has urged the end of a 90-day stop work order that halts U.S.-funded demining efforts in Southeast Asia. They emphasize the need for a waiver to resume vital mine clearance programs that encompass global demining, victim assistance, and explosive risk education. This call follows President Trump’s executive order suspending most foreign aid, which now affects critical humanitarian operations in the region.
Former ambassadors acknowledge the necessity of reviewing foreign assistance but stress that the suspension could jeopardize ongoing efforts to remove landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO). They contend that these operations not only showcase U.S. support but also enhance national security by reducing the risk of such materials falling into the hands of hostile actors. Thus, the continuation of demining is described as a strategic interest of the U.S., particularly in nations like Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
The ambassadors highlighted that demining efforts yield economic benefits by restoring land for agricultural use and infrastructure, which, in turn, bolsters local economies and decreases dependency on U.S. assistance. Additionally, these efforts are crucial for safeguarding U.S. personnel and allies from the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance, which has historically resulted in significant casualties since the Vietnam War’s conclusion.
As of 2023, Vietnam is still burdened with contamination from approximately 800,000 tons of leftover explosive materials, affecting nearly 5.59 million hectares of land. Unexploded ordnance has caused over 40,000 fatalities and injured 60,000 individuals in Vietnam alone, highlighting the urgent need for ongoing clearance operations. U.S. support has totaled about $200 million since 1993, focused on various aspects of demining and victim assistance, signifying a long-term commitment to remediation efforts in the country.
In conclusion, the former ambassadors’ appeal underscores the strategic, humanitarian, and economic imperatives of resuming U.S.-funded demining efforts in Southeast Asia. Their letter serves as a critical reminder of the lasting impact of war-related remnants and the ongoing need for international cooperation in addressing these challenges. By facilitating mine clearance, the U.S. can reinforce its commitments to regional allies while enhancing safety and stability in affected countries.
The letter from former U.S. ambassadors emphasizes the critical importance of resuming suspended demining efforts in Southeast Asia. It outlines the multifaceted benefits of such programs, including economic recovery, enhanced local safety, national security interests, and a reinforced U.S. presence in the region. The ongoing threat posed by unexploded ordnance necessitates immediate action to avoid further disruptions to life-saving remediation work.
Original Source: e.vnexpress.net
