Kathmandu— Chinese President Xi Jinping has authored an article detailing strategies for strengthening the nation's disaster prevention, mitigation, and relief capabilities, set to be published Sunday in this year’s 16th issue of *Qiushi Journal*, a key publication of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee. The article addresses China’s vulnerability to natural disasters due to its geography and climate, highlighting successes since the 18th CPC National Congress in minimizing losses from major events while calling for continued improvement and innovation in disaster response. It outlines seven core principles for effective disaster management: upholding Party leadership, prioritizing people's lives, respecting natural laws, emphasizing prevention, pursuing reform, adopting a systematic approach, and encouraging public participation.

China’s Vulnerability and Past Successes

China’s vast territory, complex geography, and diverse climate make it particularly susceptible to frequent natural disasters. According to the article, since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee has led efforts to overcome a series of major natural disasters, minimizing casualties and property losses. These achievements have garnered international recognition.

Core Principles for Effective Disaster Management

Xi Jinping’s article emphasizes seven key principles for effective disaster management. These include upholding the Party's overall leadership, prioritizing the safety and well-being of citizens, respecting the laws of nature, focusing on preventative measures, pursuing reform and innovation, adopting a systematic approach to planning, and actively engaging the public in preparedness efforts.

Prioritizing Prevention and Resilience

The article calls for a shift towards a more prevention-focused disaster management strategy. This includes integrating safety and resilience requirements into territorial spatial planning and construction projects, as well as raising disaster-resilience standards for critical infrastructure in major cities and areas prone to natural disasters. Strengthening the response to major catastrophic events is also highlighted, with an emphasis on comprehensive risk assessments and improved early warning systems.

Strengthening Capabilities and International Cooperation

Xi Jinping’s article stresses the importance of bolstering support from science, technology, and the rule of law in disaster management. This includes promoting technological innovation in emergency response and deepening international collaboration in scientific research related to disaster prevention and mitigation. Furthermore, it advocates for strengthening primary-level emergency rescue capabilities and ensuring adequate resources at the local level.

The article underscores the need for clearly defined responsibilities and accountability in disaster prevention, mitigation, and relief efforts, urging a correction of tendencies that prioritize development over safety or response over prevention.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.