Earthquake Response Exercise concludes

LAHORE : The United Nations INSARAG Asia-Pacific Earthquake Response Exercise-2024 (APERE) concludes in Lahore after successful commencement of International Rescue Challenge 2024.

Some 274 international delegates from 23 countries and humanitarian partner organisations participated in APERE.

Provincial Minister for Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique formally bid farewell to the delegates in Pakistan. He said Pakistan Rescue Team is certified by the United Nations International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) and that was why, Pakistan held the chair for the Asia-Pacific region this year and due to this exercise was hosted here in Pakistan.

He emphasizing the significance of global collaboration, stated, "By working together, we have enhanced our capabilities and improve international cooperation. It was an honor for Pakistan to host this global event, and I am confident that we have learned from each other's expertise to serve humanity better."

Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Services Zia Ullah Shah thanked the participants at the closing ceremony of the UN INSARAG Asia-Pacific Earthquake Response Exercise 2024.

United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Muhammad Yahya speaking via video link expressed gratitude to the participants.

UN-INSARAG Global Lead Winston Chang from OCHA Geneva, expressed his admiration for the progress made by the Pakistan Rescue Team. 274 delegates along with member of Pakistan Rescue team and rescue officials attended the closing ceremony of APERE 2024.