Govt to build National Emergency Operation Centre: Adviser Faruk

Initiatives have been taken to establish a full-fledged National Emergency Operation Center (NEOC) for coordinating the disaster management activities centrally, Disaster Management and Relief Adviser Faruk E Azam said today (10 August).

The adviser said this in a meeting with Chinese Ambassador in Bangladesh Yao Wen as the envoy paid a courtesy call on him at the secretariat, said a press release of the ministry.

The adviser said that the NEOC will commence its operation soon with financial and technical assistance of the Chinese government.

A memorandum of understanding has already been signed between the two governments in this regard, he added.

During the meeting, both sides discussed various aspects of disaster management and emphasized the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Bangladesh and China. 

The adviser expressed hope for Chinese support in constructing two additional regional NEOC-cum-warehouses in Chattogram and Sylhet for emergency disaster response and relief logistics.

The envoy expressed China's willingness to assist Bangladesh in disaster relief and reconstruction efforts. The adviser welcomed the proposal and described China as a key partner of Bangladesh's disaster management initiatives.

The meeting also underscored the importance of mutual cooperation, training, and exchange of expertise between the two countries.

Disaster Management and Relief Secretary Mostafizur Rahman, First Secretary of the Chinese Embassy Ge Xiaofeng, and Third Secretary Bai Zhaxi and senior officials of the ministry were present.