A group photo of the participants. Photo coutesy of UNDRR
Organized by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Regional Office for Arab States and held in Alexandria, the Arab DRR meeting also discussed progress on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction in the region.
The meeting highlighted the urgent need for strengthened disaster risk reduction strategies and multi-stakeholder cooperation to enhance regional disaster resilience.
Jackleen Azar, Deputy Governor of Alexandria, highlighted that DRR is a top local priority.
"Partnerships and sharing expertise are vital given the regional nature of risks. As a coastal area, Alexandria faces threats like floods," Azar noted.
"Disaster risk reduction is essential to achieving sustainable development. Egypt is committed to supporting DRR efforts through regional cooperation," said Major General Mohamed Higazi of Egypt in his opening remarks.
Fadi Jannan, Deputy Chief of UNDRR's Regional Office for the Arab States, concurred. "By working together, we can build a safer, more resilient future for our region and protect communities from harm," Jannan said.
Over three days, the meeting provided a platform to discuss progress on the Sendai Framework and regional action plans. Sessions also focused on implementing the results of major DRR conferences and expanding early warning systems.
On the first day, there was a regional overview of progress on the Arab Prioritized Action Plan 2021-2024.
Participants discussed preparations for the Sixth Arab Regional Platform for DRR in 2024, and the next regional action plan for 2025-2028. The second day featured a session on the Early Warning for All initiative.
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