The United States has ramped up efforts to support Papua New Guinea in addressing the threat of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) through training and major funding initiatives aimed at keeping communities safe. A five-week Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) training program recently concluded, led by U.S. Marines from the 1st Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Company. The training was conducted in Port Moresby city and other regions and equipped Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) personnel with essential EOD skills, including safe handling, ordnance identification, controlled demolitions, and emergency response. Col. Baskins, U.S. Defense Attaché in Port Moresby, said the initiative strengthens the U.S.-PNG partnership and reflects a shared commitment to a secure Indo-Pacific. Additionally, the U.S. government has awarded a $2.25 million (K9.2 million) grant to The HALO Trust, a global NGO specializing in mine clearance. HALO signed a memorandum of agreement with the Autonomous Region of Bougainville in June and plans to expand operations to Oro Province. Their work will focus on surveying, mapping, educating communities about UXO risks, and safely clearing hazardous areas. The U.S. first supported UXO clearance in PNG in 2009, removing over 2,700 UXO items in Bougainville. These new efforts continue that commitment, aiming to return land to safe and productive use for local communities.