ISLAMABAD, Oct 22 (APP):The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Thursday hosted a high-level Russian delegation at its National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) in Islamabad, conducting an international simulation exercise to demonstrate Pakistan’s disaster response capabilities and explore cooperation in emergency management, technological innovation and capacity-building.
The delegation from Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM) was led by Dmitry Nikolaevich Melnik, Director of its Department of International Cooperation, and included officials dealing with rescue operations, education, scientific and technical activities, and crisis management.
During the visit, NDMA conducted a comprehensive international simulation exercise at its headquarters, demonstrating operational coordination, information-sharing mechanisms, emergency management procedures and integrated responses to complex disaster scenarios.
The exercise highlighted the role of coordinated decision-making and inter-institutional collaboration in strengthening preparedness and ensuring effective responses to emergencies.
The Russian delegation was also briefed on the operational framework of NEOC and Pakistan’s evolving disaster management system, including early warning mechanisms, risk assessment and the use of advanced technologies for situational awareness, predictive analysis and emergency response.
The briefing highlighted NDMA’s institutional initiatives and technological capabilities aimed at improving national preparedness and strengthening resilience against disaster risks.
In a reciprocal knowledge-sharing session, the Russian delegation presented an overview of its country’s disaster management system and EMERCOM’s institutional and operational framework.
The presentation covered the National Crisis Management Center, specialised rescue units, scientific and technical activities, civil defence, population protection and emergency response capabilities.
The two sides also held interactive discussions on technological advancements, emergency coordination and specialised response mechanisms, exchanging experiences and best practices to identify areas for stronger institutional linkages.
The engagement explored opportunities for bilateral cooperation in disaster preparedness, emergency response and professional capacity-building to address increasingly complex and emerging disaster risks.
The Russian delegation appreciated Pakistan’s advanced disaster management capabilities and expressed interest in continuing bilateral cooperation.
The visit underscored the importance of international collaboration and professional exchanges in strengthening institutional preparedness, improving emergency response and building collective resilience against disasters.
NDMA reaffirmed its commitment to technological innovation, institutional coordination and international partnerships to reduce disaster risks, protect lives and livelihoods, and strengthen Pakistan’s resilience to emergencies.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
