As natural disasters increasingly impact communities worldwide, China and Pacific Island countries (PICs) have made significant strides in disaster risk reduction through enhanced cooperation.
In February 2023, the Center for Disaster Risk Reduction Cooperation was established in Jiangmen City, Guangdong Province. This landmark initiative marks the first multilateral platform jointly operated by China and the PICs, focusing on disaster prevention and mitigation.
The center is dedicated to providing PICs with advanced disaster risk monitoring, early warning technologies, and comprehensive support for post-disaster emergency materials and rescue operations. Since its inception, the center has achieved notable progress toward its objectives.
Wang Chunyang, executive dean of the Pacific Island Countries Research Institute, shared with CGTN, “We have conducted training sessions for the PICs, with around 40 officials from disaster management departments across nine countries participating in the program.”
“Additionally, we have researched the types of natural disasters prevalent in the PICs and the corresponding prevention and mitigation efforts,” she added.
The PICs, situated along a volatile volcanic and seismic belt, are frequently threatened by typhoons, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These natural disasters often persist for extended periods, sometimes lasting over 100 days. In response, researchers at the center have developed comprehensive plans for both pre-disaster preparedness and post-disaster recovery.
Huang Hui, a researcher at the Pacific Island Countries Research Institute, explained, “We utilize meteorological satellites and other related technologies to provide early warnings before a disaster strikes.”
“After a disaster, our focus shifts to coordinating and managing supplies and logistics through big data technology, as well as establishing emergency stations in affected areas,” Huang continued.
Through this collaborative effort, the center aims to address natural disasters and associated risks more effectively, protect residents' property, and contribute valuable insights to international disaster prevention and humanitarian initiatives.
Reference(s):
China, Pacific Island nations jointly improve disaster management
cgtn.com