Sino-Pak co-op on disaster preparedness in focus during PM Sharif’s China visit

TIANJIN: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif continued his official visit to China today with a visit to the National Earthquake Simulation Center at Tianjin University, where he praised China’s advanced use of technology to combat and manage natural disasters.

During his tour, the Prime Minister was briefed on cutting-edge disaster management and rescue technologies, including newly developed medical rescue vehicles and simulation tools used for training and preparedness. He expressed admiration for China’s innovative and proactive approach, stating that Pakistan stands to benefit greatly from adopting similar strategies and preventive measures.

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“Modern technology and methods used in China will prove to be very useful in dealing with natural disasters in Pakistan,” the Prime Minister said. “Benefiting from Chinese expertise, we will be able to implement more effective strategies for disaster preparedness and response.”

The Prime Minister also highlighted ongoing bilateral efforts in the disaster management sector under the Belt and Road Initiative. He was informed about key projects such as the China-Pakistan Joint Lab for Disaster and Emergency Medicine, the International Medical Cooperation Center, and the China-Pakistan Friendship Hospital, noting that work is progressing steadily on these initiatives.

“Projects like the International Medical Center and the Joint Lab in Pakistan should be further activated,” he said, calling for deeper collaboration between the two countries in tackling natural disasters through technology transfer and joint innovation.

PM ADDRESSES SITUATION AT HOME

The Prime Minister also spoke on the recent flood situation affecting parts of Punjab, including Narowal, Sialkot, Wazirabad, Hafizabad, Chiniot, and Jhang. He announced that additional relief convoys are being dispatched today and that the Federal Government has handed over all necessary documentation to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) to ensure timely assistance.

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Shehbaz Sharif also directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to maintain close coordination with the Punjab government and to provide full support in ongoing relief efforts. “Relief operations for the flood-affected families will continue without interruption,” he assured.