Ambassador Willy Kempel, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe visits the OSCE-supported Regional Explosive Hazards Training Center
Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe (POiD), Ambassador Willy Kempel, visited the OSCE-supported Regional Explosive Hazards Training Center (REHTC) on 12 July 2024.
Ambassador Kempel’s visit aimed to solidify partnerships and collaboration in tackling the ongoing challenge of explosive hazards and supporting mine clearance operations in Central Asia.
The visit included a comprehensive briefing on the OSCE POiD’s Integrated Co-operation on Explosive Hazards (ICExH) program, allowing for a deeper understanding of their efforts. Ambassador Kempel travelled to the REHTC training grounds for firsthand observation of its operations and capabilities. The REHTC and ICExH representatives provided briefings on current developments and needs at the demo range and training centre.
A tour showcased the latest equipment, training methodologies, and practical demonstrations, including long-range and short-range reconnaissance techniques, X-ray detection equipment, and “hook-and-line” and “tape-and-line” remote techniques used in explosive ordnance disposal operations.
Ambassador Kempel actively participated in two practical exercises, learning about safe ordnance removal techniques and render safe procedures.
The OSCE’s commitment to a co-operative and comprehensive security model is reinforced through collaborative efforts like this visit.