Water-related disasters are at the forefront of attention as the UAE chairs the first meeting of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Support Group in Geneva
GENEVA, October 10, 2017 (WAM) – The UAE officially chaired the first meeting of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Support Group in Geneva, which focused strategically on water-related disasters and the urgent need to strengthen global resilience.
His Excellency Ambassador Jamal Jama Al Musharrekh, Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, reviewed the UAE’s priorities as head of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Support Group from September 2025 to July 2026, which are to accelerate the implementation of the Sendai Framework, strengthen the link between climate action and disaster risk reduction, and support knowledge and innovation in this field.
During the meeting, water-related disasters, such as floods, droughts and water scarcity, were highlighted as a major source of concern due to their escalating frequency and severity, in light of climate change and its severe impact on sustainable development and human security.
His Excellency Al Musharrakh stressed that water-related disasters must be at the core of our collective priorities to reduce disaster risks, especially with the approaching convening of the United Nations Water Conference 2026, which the UAE is hosting in partnership with the Republic of Senegal.
The meeting also included a speech by Mr. Kamal Kishore, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, who stressed the importance of a coordinated, innovative and comprehensive approach to managing growing disaster risks.
The UAE’s presidency of this meeting embodies its firm commitment to strengthening multilateral efforts in the field of disaster risk reduction, building more resilient societies, and enhancing global resilience and sustainable development through comprehensive dialogue and constructive partnerships.
- For more: Follow Khaleejion 24 Arabic, Khaleejion 24 English, Khaleejion 24 Live, and for social media follow us on Facebook and Twitter
