Pakistan to benefit from Chinese disaster management technology: PM

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday visited the National Earthquake Simulation Centre at Tianjin University, where he was briefed on cutting-edge disaster management and rescue technologies.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the Prime Minister praised China’s innovative use of technology in dealing with natural disasters, calling it an example worth replicating in Pakistan. 

“The modern techniques being used in China will prove extremely beneficial in tackling natural disasters in Pakistan,” he said.

He emphasised that Pakistan could benefit greatly from Chinese expertise in developing effective precautionary measures and strategies for future calamities. 

The Prime Minister also called for further strengthening joint projects such as the China-Pakistan Joint Lab for Disaster and Emergency Medicine and the International Medical Cooperation Center, built under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Highlighting Pakistan’s current flood situation, PM Shehbaz said that the federal government had dispatched additional relief convoys to Narowal, Sialkot, Wazirabad, Hafizabad, Chiniot, and Jhang. 

These supplies have been handed over to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) for distribution among the affected families.

He directed the NDMA to remain in full coordination with Punjab’s government and PDMA, ensuring continued relief operations for flood victims.

At the simulation centre, the Prime Minister was also shown new medical rescue vehicles and disaster preparedness systems developed in collaboration between Pakistan and China.

Officials informed him that several joint projects are ongoing, including the China-Pakistan Friendship Hospital and advanced labs for emergency medicine.

Later, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed students and faculty at Tianjin University, calling the occasion a “great honour” and praising the institution as one of China’s most historic centres of learning.

Highlighting the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China, the Prime Minister said the relationship is built on mutual trust, sincerity, and love and has stood the test of time in every difficult situation.

“Pakistan and China have always supported each other in times of hardship,” Shehbaz Sharif noted, adding that the bond is as old as the ancient Silk Road.

He recalled Pakistan’s historic role in China’s global recognition, reminding the audience that Pakistan was the first Islamic country to recognise China. 

He also mentioned that the first international flight to Beijing departed from Karachi 60 years ago, symbolising the depth of bilateral ties.

Referring to connectivity projects, the Prime Minister hailed the Karakoram Highway as a monumental symbol of friendship between the two nations, connecting them not just geographically but also through shared history and culture.

Reporter: Awais Kiyani