Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya advocated world cooperation in opposition to a pure catastrophe amid the local weather disaster in a pivotal gathering of ministers chargeable for catastrophe and emergency administration of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) held within the Azerbaijani capital Baku.
In a platform for leaders to debate methods and initiatives geared toward mitigating the worldwide impression of disasters, Yerlikaya firmly acknowledged: “Disasters are not confined by borders; they transcend localities and affect us all. Therefore, collaborating at the global level against disasters is no longer a choice but a necessity.”
Highlighting the core precept of the OTS, Yerlikaya emphasised: “The OTS is founded on the bedrock of brotherhood, not mere interests. When our member states unite, we bolster our collective strength. Our unity is our greatest asset, and each summit and meeting we convene marks a milestone in fortifying institutional unity within the Turkic world.”
The minister went on to recall Türkiye’s vital function in suggesting the institution of a civil safety mechanism on the OTS summit held in Istanbul in 2021. He elaborated: “At the first meeting of ministers responsible for disaster and emergency management in Ankara last year, our aim was clear: To reduce and enhance our response to the devastating effects of natural disasters. We proposed the creation of a Disaster Response Unit, opening it for discussion. This unit would contribute significantly to joint search and rescue operations and recovery efforts, and serve as a mechanism for cooperation and coordination to address pressing needs, including property recovery.”
Yerlikaya expressed optimism relating to the forthcoming tenth summit scheduled for Nov. 3, 2023, in Turkistan, Kazakhstan, stating that an settlement on the institution of the OTS Civil Protection Mechanism can be prepared by then.
Turning his consideration to latest tragedies, Yerlikaya recounted the earthquakes that shook Kahramanmaraş on Feb. 6, 2023. He revealed: “In our hour of need, we issued an international call for assistance. Remarkably, 103 countries responded, offering their support. Ninety of these nations swiftly dispatched aid, including search and rescue teams and field hospitals. The Turkic world stood alongside us, demonstrating the profound truth that sharing responsibilities lightens burdens. To our brothers and sisters in the Organization of Turkic States, your unwavering solidarity did not go unnoticed. The 2,841 search and rescue personnel and 55 search and rescue dogs you sent played a pivotal role in saving many lives. Our resilient nation, which never forgets those who stood by its side in times of hardship, extends its heartfelt gratitude for your prayers, assistance and the tears you shed.”
Yerlikaya in his handle emphasised the worldwide significance of catastrophe administration, asserting: “Disasters affect us all, transcending local boundaries. Hence, global collaboration against disasters is not a choice but an indispensable imperative. I have unwavering faith in this organization’s commitment to a robust Disaster Management System, a necessity for all of us.”
Source: www.dailysabah.com
