Representatives from 11 BRICS nations gathered on Friday to deliberate on strategies for enhancing cooperation in disaster mitigation and management, according to an official.
The delegates, participating in the second technical meeting of the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group, wrapped up the final session of the three-day conference at a hotel in Puri.
Following the sessions, the delegation, as per the programme organised by the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), visited the Odisha State Watermanship and Lifeguard Institute (OSWALI) located at Ramchandi.
During the visit, OSWALI showcased high-stakes, specialized lifesaving demonstrations aimed at preventing aquatic accidents along the Ramchandi coastline.
Equipped with life jackets, the international delegates boarded a vessel to observe the comprehensive safety and rescue protocols firsthand.
An official release stated that OSWALI’s contributions to managing water-related hazards in Odisha are highly commendable, noting that the BRICS delegation observed and praised the skill demonstration with great enthusiasm.
The visiting delegation also expressed their gratitude to the OSDMA for seamlessly organizing the three-day international summit.
Odisha’s Disaster Management Minister, Suresh Pujari, stated that the high-profile event in Puri saw active participation from representatives of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia.
