Canada supports de-mining efforts in Sri Lanka

Prince Harry addresses the event at Kensington Palace

Prince Harry addresses the event at Kensington Palace

Canada is pledging new money to help clear landmines in Sri Lanka and Ukraine, Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland prior to attending an international demining event held at Kensington Palace in London.

Canada’s announcement comes as the international community marks the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.

The new funding includes $1.9 million over three years to find and clear landmines in northern Sri Lanka, which will allow residents in the affected areas to resume their livelihoods in agriculture and the fishery.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera and Canadian High Commissioner Shelly Whiting with Canadian sponsored demining team.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera and Canadian High Commissioner Shelly Whiting with Canadian sponsored demining team.

It also includes more than $3.8 million for education, training and mine-clearance activities in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, Freeland announced.