Islamabad – On 21 January 2026, the High Level Working Group Meeting (HLWGM) on Disaster Risk Reduction (HLWG-DRR) was convened by the National Disaster Management Authority of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. This significant gathering brought together senior officials from the ECO Member States and representatives from regional and international organizations to engage in collaborative discussions aimed at addressing critical issues related to disaster risk reduction in the ECO region. The meeting served as a platform for member states to share best practices, identify common challenges, and explore innovative solutions to enhance regional cooperation in mitigating disaster risks. Through these efforts, participants aimed to strengthen the collective capacity of the ECO region to respond effectively to disasters and build resilience against future risks.
The HLWGM also discussed the Islamabad Declaration, which reaffirms the commitment of ECO Member States to strengthen regional cooperation, update the ECO Regional Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction (ECORFDRR) for 2025–2030, and enhance DRR through capacity-building initiatives and innovative solutions. Additionally, the meeting highlighted the importance of empowering women and youth in climate action and fostering collaboration with international organizations to implement joint programs aimed at improving resilience against disasters.
In conclusion, the HLWGM represents a pivotal moment for disaster risk reduction efforts across the ECO region. By fostering collaboration among member states and engaging with international partners, this meeting has established a unified approach to mitigating disaster impacts. The commitments made and strategies discussed will be instrumental in addressing the pressing challenges of disaster risk, ultimately contributing to a safer and more resilient future for the region.
