- Pakistan and Switzerland signed an MoU on disaster management for enhanced collaboration.
- The partnership aims to effectively tackle natural catastrophes using technology and expertise.
- Focus areas include advanced warning systems, swift response, and rehabilitation measures.
Pakistan and Switzerland Sign MoU to Enhance Collaboration in Disaster Management
Nathiagali, Pakistan – In a significant move to strengthen bilateral cooperation, Pakistan and Switzerland have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on disaster management. The MoU aims to foster collaboration between the two countries in harnessing technology and expertise to effectively tackle natural catastrophes in the future.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, expressed optimism about Swiss cooperation in providing Pakistan with an advanced warning system and other essential tools to mitigate the impact of natural disasters. He emphasized that Pakistan, despite having a minimal carbon footprint, is still grappling with the consequences of global climate change.
An important MOU was signed today in Nathiagali between Pakistan 🇵🇰 and Switzerland 🇨🇭 on disaster risk management @ndmapk presided over by the PM @CMShehbaz. Thank you to @ignaziocassis Foreign Minster of Switzerland for taking so much interest in @ClimateChangePK and our… pic.twitter.com/5vp0SGZius
— SenatorSherryRehman (@sherryrehman) July 8, 2023
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed the desire to expand bilateral ties with Switzerland, particularly in the tourism sector. He acknowledged Pakistan’s abundant natural beauty and emphasized the need to capitalize on this potential for mutual benefit.
The prime minister commended the Swiss foreign minister’s commitment to regional peace and stressed the importance of maintaining peace in the region. He emphasized that Switzerland can play a pivotal role in promoting peace as a catalyst.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to progress, prosperity, and the well-being of its people. He highlighted the government’s focus on areas such as education, information technology, industry, women’s empowerment, and agriculture.
Addressing the need for regional stability, the prime minister emphasized the resolution of long-standing issues, including the Kashmir dispute. He asserted that lasting peace in the region is contingent upon the resolution of these issues.
Foreign Minister of Switzerland, Ignazio Cassis, spoke about the significance of the MoU in fostering collaboration between the two countries in combating climate change. Acknowledging Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, he expressed concern over the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters, as evidenced by the devastating floods and displacement of people in recent years.
Minister Cassis emphasized the urgent need for international cooperation to mitigate the risks associated with natural catastrophes. He reassured Pakistan of Switzerland’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and pooling resources in the field of disaster management.
The MoU signing ceremony witnessed the participation of the Swiss foreign minister, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Chairman Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik, Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman, and other relevant authorities. The signed document will not only bring the NDMA in line with international standards but also facilitate cooperation between Pakistan and Switzerland in forecasting natural disasters, responding swiftly, and implementing effective rehabilitation measures.
Published in PakWeb, July 08, 2023.
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