The Maldives government is currently hosting an inter-governmental expert group meeting with SAARC leaders to create a natural disaster rapid response mechanism for member nations.
The meeting is being held at Traders Hotel in Male’ May 25-26 with the intention of finalising the draft agreement.
“Once the agreement enters into force, it will enable Member States to cooperate and extend assistance to Member States of SAARC in the event of devastating natural disasters. This will include deployment of rapid response and experts, rescue and relief operations, medical assistance, etc,” the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
“Furthermore this agreement will create a channel for flow of relief material and medical supplies and equipment without bureaucratic hindrances.”
The Maldives is hosting the 17th SAARC Summit this year on November 10-11.
