Islamabad: Patricia Scotland, the Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Nations, visited the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) at the headquarters of Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) today. Her visit included a detailed briefing on the advanced capabilities of the NEOC, which plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s disaster management and preparedness strategies.

According to Press Information Department, NDMA Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik showcased the NEOC’s integration of satellite feeds, software applications, and artificial intelligence tools that facilitate the creation of a National Common Operating Picture (NCOP). This system enhances Pakistan’s capacity for digital risk assessment, early warning, and preparedness across various disaster phases.

The briefing further highlighted the operational dynamics of the NDMA, explaining how the NEOC functions as a pivotal hub for coordinating nationwide emergency responses. It ensures efficient collaboration among Provincial and District Disaster Management Authorities, various government departments, and international partners, optimizing pre-disaster and emergency operations.

Secretary General Scotland commended Pakistan’s proactive disaster management initiatives and the functional capabilities of the NEOC. She expressed optimism for stronger collaboration with Pakistan in the areas of climate resilience and adaptation, acknowledging the critical nature of these issues on a global scale.