Within the framework of participation in the 4th High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018–2028”, held in Dushanbe, Republic of Tajikistan, the Secretary General of the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO), Mr. Arguj Kalantarli, delivered a statement during the Plenary Session of the Conference.

In his statement, the Secretary General emphasized the growing importance of strengthening international cooperation, disaster preparedness and resilience in the face of increasing water-related and climate-related challenges affecting communities worldwide. He underlined the important role of civil defence and emergency response institutions in reducing disaster risks and protecting populations.

Mr. Arguj Kalantarli also noted that water-related challenges today are closely linked to sustainable development, humanitarian resilience and public safety, requiring stronger coordination and practical cooperation at international level.

The Secretary General further reaffirmed the ICDO’s commitment to supporting Member States in the fields of preparedness, capacity-building, humanitarian coordination and practical international cooperation. He also highlighted the Organization’s ongoing modernization efforts aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness in line with contemporary global challenges.

The organization and international significance of the Conference were also emphasized, as well as the importance of such global platforms in strengthening dialogue, cooperation and collective international efforts in the areas of sustainable development, and humanitarian resilience.