ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari reflected on devastating 2005 earthquake, emphasising need for improved disaster preparedness and climate resilience.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed that government initiatives should encompass various sectors to ensure robust disaster preparedness, including infrastructure safety, poverty alleviation and improved agricultural practices.

"National Resilience Day is motivation for us to embrace best practices and implement policies and strategies aimed at fortifying our nation's resilience," he added.

Prime Minister Shehbaz recalled devastating earthquake of 2005, stating, "October 8 reminds us of devastating earthquake of 2005-great tragedy that befell upon Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Our heartfelt prayers go to all those who endured loss of lives and properties." He noted that after earthquake, floods of 2022 were mega-disaster that highlighted Pakistan's vulnerability to climate change.

He expressed gratitude for valuable help provided by international community, civil society and private philanthropy in bolstering government's national response efforts during 2022 floods disaster.

President Asif Ali Zardari echoed similar sentiments, advocating for construction of climate-resilient infrastructure. He remarked, "Today we are observing National Resilience Day, which reminds us of devastating earthquake of October 8, 2005, that claimed thousands of lives."

He stressed need to educate public on disaster risk management and engage communities in preparedness efforts. He extended his gratitude to international community for their support during recovery from past disasters. "Their support and solidarity not only helped us rebuild our roads, education, health and other infrastructure but also gave hope to affected people," he said.

President Zardari said that looming threat of climate change has made Pakistan more vulnerable to natural disasters, emphasising urgency to invest in capacity building of national and provincial disaster management authorities.

He concluded with hopeful message, stating, "I am sure that if we continue to work with spirit of unity and resilience, we can overcome challenges facing our country."

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 09 2024

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