Latest news with #InternationalConferenceonDisasterResilientInfrastructure
Hans India
38 minutes ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Build strong, disaster-resilient infrastructure for future: PM Modi tells world
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday underlined the importance of constructing disaster-resilient infrastructure and outlined key global priorities to achieve this goal during his address at the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, being held in Europe for the first time. Expressing gratitude to French President Emmanuel Macron and the French government, Prime Minister Modi said, "I thank my friend President Macron and the Government of France for their support. I also extend my wishes for the upcoming United Nations Oceans Conference." Highlighting the vulnerability of coastal and island regions to natural disasters, he said, "The theme of this conference is shaping a resilient future for coastal regions. Coastal regions and islands are at great risk due to natural disasters and climate change." "In recent times, we saw Cyclone Remal in India and Bangladesh, Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean, Typhoon Yagi in Southeast Asia, Hurricane Helene in the United States, Typhoon Usagi in the Philippines, and Cyclone Chido in parts of Africa. Such disasters cause damage to lives and property," he said. Recalling India's own past experiences, PM Modi noted, "India also experienced the pain during the super cyclone of 1999 and the tsunami of 2004. We adapted and rebuilt, factoring in resilience. Cyclone shelters were constructed across vulnerable areas. We also helped build a tsunami warning system for 29 countries." Emphasising India's global role, he said, "The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure is working with 25 small island developing states. Resilient homes, hospitals, schools, energy systems, water security mechanisms, and early warning systems are being built. Given the theme of this conference, I am glad to see friends from the Pacific, Indian Ocean, and the Caribbean here. Further, I am happy that the African Union has also joined the CDRI." He listed out global priorities that need urgent attention, starting with education and skills. "Courses, modules, and skill development programmes on disaster resilience need to become part of higher education. This will build a skilled workforce that can tackle future challenges," he said. Stressing the importance of shared learning, he added, "Many countries face disasters and rebuild with resilience. A global digital repository for the learnings and best practices would be beneficial." On financing, PM Modi stated, "Disaster resilience requires innovative financing. We must design accessible programmes and ensure developing nations have access to finance." He also called for focussed attention towards vulnerable nations. "We consider small island developing states as large ocean countries. Due to their vulnerability, they deserve special attention." Highlighting the need for preparedness, he said, "Strengthening early warning systems and coordination is crucial. This helps make timely decisions and effective last-mile communication. I am sure that discussions at this conference will consider these aspects." Concluding his address with a powerful message, Prime Minister Modi urged the international community to build infrastructure that is both resilient and inspirational. "Let us build infrastructure that stands firm against time and tied. Let us build a strong and brilliant future for the world," he said.
News18
a day ago
- Business
- News18
Protecting World's $1.5-Trillion Coastal Economies: 7th Edition Of ICDRI-2025 Opens In France
Last Updated: The two-day annual conference brings together governments, UN agencies and multilateral development banks to promote disaster-resilient infrastructure in the wake of climate change The mounting disaster risks faced by the world's most vulnerable coastal communities are at the forefront of the seventh edition of the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI-2025), which began in Nice, France, on Friday. The crucial two-day conference, organised by the CDRI, will urge the global community to fast-track resilient infrastructure in the world's most vulnerable countries. This year's focus is on coastal communities, which contribute roughly $1.5 trillion to global GDP annually – a figure projected to rise to nearly $3 trillion by 2030. In addition, nearly 90% of goods moved globally are transported by sea. About 37% of the world's population lives within 100 km of the coast, where the population density is twice the global average. While all coastal areas face growing challenges, Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are especially vulnerable because of their remoteness and isolation, experts say. 'Coastal resilience is essential for safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and economies. The conference will bridge science, policy, and finance by bringing together global voices to address shared challenges and promote collective action, particularly for vulnerable coastal communities and SIDS. Being delivered in Europe for the first time, in partnership with the Government of France, the 7th edition of CDRI's annual conference will again foster inclusive dialogue and forge action-oriented partnerships to advance the cause of disaster-resilient infrastructure," said Amit Prothi, DG, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the United Nations Climate Action Summit on 23rd September 2019, in New York, CDRI is the second major global initiative launched by India after the International Solar Alliance. A global partnership between governments, UN agencies, multilateral development banks, the private sector, and academic institutions, it serves as a platform for generating and exchanging knowledge and providing technical support to member countries. Since its formation, CDRI has forged global partnerships with as many as 49 countries. Over the next two days, experts will discuss how coastal regions, especially SIDS, can be better equipped to withstand climate-induced hazards while ensuring economic stability. The CDRI will also launch a thought piece on Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure (DRI) for Coastal Regions at the inaugural session. Developed by expert groups, it will set the tone for discussions throughout the two-day event, including the broader third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) taking place in Nice from June 9-13. First Published:
