Excellencies,

Distinguished delegates, Dear friends, Namaskar.

Welcome to the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure 2025. This conference is being hosted in Europe for the very first time. I thank my friend, President Macron and the Government of France for their support. I also extend my wishes for the upcoming United Nations Oceans Conference.

Friends,

The theme of this conference is ‘Shaping a Resilient Future for Coastal Regions'. Coastal regions and islands are at great risk due to natural disasters and climate change. In recent times, we saw: Cyclone Remal in India and Bangladesh, Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean, Typhoon Yagi in South-east Asia, Hurricane Helene in the United States, Typhoon Usagi in Philippines and Cyclone Chido in parts of Africa. Such disasters caused damage to lives and property.

Friends,

India also experienced this pain during the super-cyclone of 1999 and the tsunami of 2004. We adapted and rebuilt, factoring in resilience. Cyclone shelters were constructed across vulnerable areas. We also helped build a tsunami warning system for 29 countries.

Friends,

The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure is working with 25 Small Island Developing States. Resilient homes, hospitals, schools, energy, water security and early warning systems are being built. Given the theme of this conference, I am glad to see friends from the Pacific, Indian Ocean and the Caribbean here. Further, I am happy that the African Union has also joined the CDRI.

Friends,

I would like to draw your attention to some important global priorities.

First: Courses, modules and skill development programmes on disaster resilience need to become part of higher education. This will build a skilled workforce that can tackle future challenges.

Second: Many countries face disasters and rebuild with resilience. A global digital repository of their learnings and best practices would be beneficial.

Third: Disaster resilience requires innovative financing. We must design actionable programmes and ensure developing nations have access to finance.

Fourth: We consider Small Island Developing States as Large Ocean Countries. Due to their vulnerability, they deserve special attention.

Fifth: Strengthening early warning systems and coordination is crucial. This helps timely decisions and effective last-mile communication. I am sure that discussions in this conference will consider these aspects.

Friends,

Let us build infrastructure that stands firm against time and tide. Let us build a strong and resilient future for the world.

Thank You.

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MJPS/ST