State Secretary Matušić attends EWIPA Dublin Conference

State Secretary for Political Affairs Frano Matušić on Friday in Dublin attended a conference on the Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas (EWIPA).
 
The participants exchanged views on the devastating and long-lasting humanitarian impact of the use of explosive weapons in populated areas and improving the protection of civilians in conflict zones.
 
Addressing the event, Matušić welcomed the adoption of the Political Declaration on strengthening the protection of civilians (PoC) from the humanitarian consequences arising from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, backed by more than 80 countries. He recalled Croatia’s experiences with civilian casualties in conflict areas, underscoring the need to strengthen all available PoC mechanisms.
 
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine once again highlighted the vulnerability of civilians in conflict areas. Matušić stressed the importance of continued PoC, notably the training of experts and providing adequate protective gear. In that context, he underlined Croatia’s willingness to continue cooperating with partners and share its knowledge, particularly the knowledge in demining and expert training.
 
On the fringes of the conference, Matušić held talks with Secretary General at the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs Joe Hackett. The two officials confirmed good bilateral relations, discussed the prospects of additional strengthening of cooperation within bilateral and multilateral forums, and exchanged views on regional and global matters.
 
 
 

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