TO mark the 77^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Myanmar and the Russian Fed­eration, a forum on disaster preparedness and emergency response was held yesterday afternoon in Saint Peters­burg, Russia. Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Dr Soe Win par­ticipated in the event via vid­eoconferencing and delivered a speech.

In his address, Union Min­ister Dr Soe Win highlighted Myanmar’s efforts in managing natural disaster risks, noting that Myanmar faces the impact of climate change like other countries. He emphasized the government’s commitment to disaster mitigation, resil­ience-building and recovery, following the guidance of the national leadership.

He also mentioned Myan­mar’s disaster management law and bylaws, established in 2013 and 2015 and discussed the roles of the National Dis­aster Management Committee (NDMC) and local committees in addressing disaster risks. He explained that effective prepar­edness can minimize disaster losses and help communities become more resilient.

The Union Minister shared information about Myanmar Disaster Alert Mobile Appli­cation, which provides early warnings for natural disasters. He also mentioned the installa­tion of Single Side Band (SSB) communication systems in areas prone to frequent nat­ural disasters, ensuring that alternative communication methods are available during emergencies.

The speech also acknowl­edged Russia’s humanitarian assistance during the 2023 Mocha Cyclone and the 2024 Typhoon Yagi flooding in My­anmar and expressed gratitude for the support. The Union Min­ister assured that Myanmar would continue to strengthen partnership with Russia in disaster management in the coming years.

During the ceremony, My­anmar Ambassador to Russia U Thit Linn Ohn and Russian Ambassador to Myanmar Mr Iskander K Azizov delivered welcome addresses. Repre­sentatives from Myanmar’s Ministry of Home Affairs, the Myanmar Police Force and the Fire Service also participated.

Diplomatic representatives from both countries discussed sector-specific issues and the audience participated in a ques­tion-and-answer session before the event concluded.

Students from Myanmar in Saint Petersburg, along with representatives from the Russian Fire Service and local universities also attended the ceremony. — MNA/KZL