MAG , US- f unded p rojects r esume o perations in Quang Tri

The Mines Advisory Group (MAG) Vietnam has announced the resumption of its project, the “Community Communication and Mine Clearance” in the province, Phase VII (2021-2025), according to the Quang Tri Provincial Department of Foreign Affairs.

This decision follows the revocation of a US presidential executive order that had temporarily suspended foreign aid programs funded by the US. With approval from the US Department of State, MAG has been granted an extension of funding for its Quang Tri project until April 30, 2025.

MAG Quang Tri staff conduct mine clearance. Photo: V.P

The project officially restarted on April 2, 2025, beginning with refresher training sessions to ensure safety and compliance with operational standards before field activities resume.

Additionally, MAG Vietnam has submitted a proposal for the next phase of its contract, set to commence on May 1, 2025, pending approval from donors.

Along with the project, four other US-funded projects in Quang Tri have been authorized to resume operations after the temporary suspension. The projects include the Restoring the Environment and Neutralising the Effects of War (RENEW) project, which has received over US$9.7 million from Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA).

Another project, the Survey and Clearance of Unexploded Ordnance, supported by PeaceTrees Vietnam (PTVN) with over $14.5 million for 2021-2025, aims to reduce hazards and promote socio-economic development in Quang Tri Province.

There is also capacity building for the Quang Tri Mine Action Centre, funded by NPA with a budget of $1.4 million for 2022-2025.

A project aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in areas heavily affected by Agent Orange is once again in operation. Funded by non-refundable ODA from the US Agency for International Development (USAID), this initiative will run from 2021 to 2026. It is being implemented across eight provinces in Vietnam, including Quang Tri, with a budget exceeding $5.6 million.

With the reinstatement of these projects, Quang Tri continues to benefit from international assistance aimed at mitigating the impacts of war and improving the lives of affected communities.

Van Phong - Khanh Khanh