UK and AFAD Forge Stronger Partnership at #GPDRR2025: Resilience Against Disasters to Grow Through Joint Efforts

UK and AFAD Forge Stronger Partnership at #GPDRR2025: Resilience Against Disasters to Grow Through Joint Efforts

ANKARA – A significant meeting took place between the UK in Türkiye Embassy and the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD) within the scope of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR2025). This high-level engagement marks a critical step towards enhancing resilience against disasters and strengthening international cooperation.

Valuable Exchange of Insights Between AFAD and UK Teams

The "UK in Türkiye" social media account announced the meeting, stating: "Great to connect with @AFADBaskanlik at #GPDRR2025. A valuable exchange of insights and experiences with our teams working on #resilience at @FCDOGovUK, @cabinetofficeuk and @UKHSA. Looking forward to continuing our collaboration and learning together."

This gathering indicates that key UK institutions such as the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDOGovUK), the Cabinet Office UK, and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) had the opportunity to share their expertise in disaster management and public health with AFAD, Turkey's leading disaster organization. The exchange of knowledge particularly focused on the concept of resilience, which lies at the heart of countries' efforts to strengthen their disaster preparedness, response, and recovery processes.

Emphasis on Resilience and a Mission of Joint Learning

"Resilience," the focal point of the discussion, refers not only to the strengthening of physical structures against disasters but also to the ability of societies and institutions to adapt to unexpected shocks and quickly return to normalcy. The experiences of the UK and Turkey in this field are of great importance in the face of global climate change and increasing disaster risks. In line with this shared vision, the teams from both countries aim not only to share existing knowledge but also to shape future cooperation models by learning from each other.

Turkey's Role in the International Arena

As a country frequently facing disasters due to its geographical location, Turkey possesses significant knowledge and practical experience in disaster management and risk reduction. AFAD's active role in international operations and the systems it has developed serve as examples for many countries globally. This meeting can also be interpreted as an indication of Turkey's contribution to international efforts concerning disaster resilience.

Strong Future Collaboration Steps

The emphasis in the UK Embassy's statement, "Looking forward to continuing our collaboration and learning together," suggests that this engagement is not a one-off meeting but rather signals an ongoing partnership that will continue with more in-depth and concrete projects in the future. Such international collaborations are vital for reducing disaster risks and increasing societal resilience at both national and global levels.