Serbia–U.S. Strategic Dialogue: A Strong Impetus for Continued Humanitarian Demining Efforts and the Strengthening of National Capacities
As part of his visit to Washington, D.C., beginning on 25 October 2026, Mr. Bojan Glamočlija, Director of the Republic of Serbia’s Mine Action Center, met with Ms. Karen Chandler, Director of the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs at the U.S. Department of State.
The meeting focused on the results achieved to date through cooperation between the Republic of Serbia and the United States of America (U.S.), the identification of priorities for future joint activities, and opportunities to further advance humanitarian demining projects.
Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of mine action within the framework of the Serbia–U.S. Strategic Dialogue, the first session of which was held in Washington, D.C., in July 2026.
The launch of this dialogue represents an important step towards strengthening bilateral relations and establishing an institutional framework for enhanced cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
In this context, humanitarian demining has been recognised as an area of direct relevance to the safety and security of citizens, the sustainable development of local communities, and the creation of conditions for the safe use of land and infrastructure development.
The continuity and strength of this partnership are further demonstrated by the financial support provided by the United States. In 2026, the United States allocated a total of USD 8.1 million for humanitarian demining activities.
This funding provides significant momentum for the continuation of ongoing projects and the launch of new initiatives, while also supporting the development of national capacities to address the challenge of explosive remnants of war (ERW) across the territory of the Republic of Serbia in a systematic and effective manner.
The discussions also addressed the next steps in implementing ongoing and planned projects, the identification of priority clearance sites, the continued removal of ERW, and further strengthening of institutional and operational cooperation.
Director Glamočlija expressed his gratitude to the U.S. partners for their longstanding and continued support, emphasising that the results achieved to date provide a solid foundation for further strengthening the partnership and advancing new joint initiatives.
Building strong national capacities is fundamental to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the national mine action system and its ability to respond independently and effectively to existing and emerging challenges.
As part of his programme in Washington, D.C., Mr. Bojan Glamočlija, Director of the SMAC, also attended the annual 2026 Clearing the Path Gala, organised by the Marshall Legacy Institute (MLI) and held on 28 October 2026.
This prominent event brought together representatives of organisations and institutions working in the field of mine action, donors, government representatives, international organisations, and other partners committed to contributing to a safer, mine-free world.
The gala was dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of humanitarian demining, victim assistance and Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE), recognising the contributions of organisations and individuals working in this field, and encouraging continued support for initiatives aimed at creating a safer environment.
The meeting at the U.S. Department of State and participation in the 2026 Clearing the Path Gala reaffirm the commitment of the Republic of Serbia’s Mine Action Center to continuing to strengthen the national mine action system through bilateral cooperation, partnerships with international organisations, and close engagement with donors.
