On 27 October 2025, the Secretary-General of the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO), Mr. Arguj Kalantarli, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Rodolfo Benítez Verson, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Cuba to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between ICDO and Cuba in the areas of civil defence, disaster risk reduction, and emergency preparedness. Both sides discussed Cuba’s long-standing experience and institutional capacities in managing natural disasters, as well as opportunities to share best practices and expertise within the ICDO framework.

The parties exchanged views on possible joint initiatives in training, technical cooperation, and regional capacity-building for the Caribbean, with a focus on advancing preparedness and community resilience.

During the meeting, both sides highlighted readiness to explore practical areas of cooperation with the Cuban authorities and reaffirmed the Organization’s commitment to promoting international cooperation in civil protection and disaster management.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared interest in continued dialogue and collaboration aimed at enhancing national and regional resilience, strengthening institutional capacities, and contributing to collective efforts to protect lives and communities.