Pakistan and Switzerland have committed to jointly tackling natural catastrophes by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on disaster management. This agreement aims to advance their collaboration by leveraging technology and expertise.
The signing ceremony in Nathiagali was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who voiced anticipation for Swiss cooperation in advanced warning systems and disaster prevention technologies. He underscored Pakistan’s vulnerability to the impacts of global climate change, despite the nation’s minimal carbon footprint.
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that Pakistan aimed to promote progress, prosperity, education, IT, industry, women empowerment, and agriculture for its people’s welfare. He reiterated the necessity for resolving regional issues, like the Kashmir conflict, for lasting peace.
Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis considered the MoU crucial for climate change collaboration. He recognized Pakistan’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and susceptibility to natural disasters, as evidenced by recent flooding. He advocated for international cooperation to mitigate such risks and reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to this cause.
The Swiss Foreign Minister and NDMA Chairman, Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik, signed the MoU. The agreement is expected to align the NDMA with international standards and promote collaboration between Pakistan and Switzerland in forecasting, responding to, and rehabilitating after natural disasters.
