Pakistan Hosts 10th ECO Ministerial Meeting, Strengthens Regional Disaster Preparedness

By webdesk On Jan 24, 2026

Independent Report
Islamabad, January 22, 2026:
Pakistan successfully hosted the 10th Ministerial Meeting of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), culminating in the adoption of the Islamabad Declaration. The two-day event, organized by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), brought together ministers, senior officials, and representatives from regional and international organizations, highlighting a collective commitment to disaster resilience and climate risk management.
During the meeting, ECO member states emphasized the importance of regional coordination, early warning systems, and joint preparedness efforts to address growing disaster risks. Representatives from Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan shared strategies for improving disaster management, including capacity building, simulation exercises, and real-time data sharing. Pakistan showcased its advanced National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) as a hub for regional cooperation and technical support.
Key outcomes of the meeting included the approval of the ECO Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Action Plan (2025–2030), joint training programs, and initiatives to protect vulnerable groups such as women, youth, children, and people with disabilities. The meeting also endorsed collaborations with UNESCAP, APDIM, and UNICEF, including the launch of an awareness-focused animation video for children in the ECO region.
Federal Minister for Climate Change Dr. Musadiq Malik emphasized that climate-induced disasters are no longer future possibilities—they are present realities. The Islamabad Declaration reaffirms ECO countries’ shared commitment to inclusive, people-centered approaches and practical actions for disaster preparedness. Delegates praised Pakistan and NDMA for their excellent organization and hospitality, marking the event as a major step toward stronger regional disaster resilience and community safety.