Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the critical need for disaster-resilient infrastructure and outlined key global priorities to achieve this during his address at the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure — being hosted in Europe for the first time.
Expressing gratitude to French President Emmanuel Macron and the French government, PM Modi said, “I thank my friend President Macron and the Government of France for their support. I also extend my best wishes for the upcoming United Nations Oceans Conference.”
Focusing on the vulnerability of coastal and island regions, the Prime Minister highlighted, “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.”
Listing recent devastating disasters such as Cyclone Remal in India and Bangladesh, Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean, and Typhoon Usagi in the Philippines, Modi noted the extensive damage such events cause to lives and property worldwide.
Reflecting on India’s own history, he said, “India also experienced pain during the 1999 super cyclone and the 2004 tsunami. We adapted and rebuilt with resilience — constructing cyclone shelters across vulnerable areas and building a tsunami warning system for 29 countries.”
Modi underscored India’s global leadership through the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), which works with 25 small island developing states to create resilient homes, hospitals, schools, energy systems, water security mechanisms, and early warning systems. “I’m glad to see friends from the Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Caribbean here. I also welcome the African Union’s participation in CDRI,” he said.
He then outlined key priorities for the global community:
• Education and Skills: “Courses, modules, and skill development programmes on disaster resilience must become integral to higher education. A skilled workforce is essential to tackle future challenges,” he said.
• Knowledge Sharing: “Many countries face disasters and rebuild with resilience. A global digital repository of best practices would be valuable for all.”
• Financing: “Disaster resilience demands innovative and accessible financing. We must ensure developing nations have access to funds.”
• Focus on Vulnerable Nations: “Small island developing states deserve special attention because of their vulnerability. We consider them large ocean countries.”
• Preparedness: “Strengthening early warning systems and coordination is crucial for effective last-mile communication and timely decisions,” he added.
Wrapping up his address with a powerful call to action, PM Modi urged the international community to build infrastructure that is both resilient and inspirational: “Let us build infrastructure that stands firm against time and tide. Let us build a strong and brilliant future for the world.”