Building an Earthquake-Resistant Country: Importance of Listening to Science
Deputy Prime Minister Fikri Ataoğlu Receives AFAD Officials for Earthquake Monitoring Center in TRNC
Deputy Prime Minister Fikri Ataoğlu, who is also the Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment, recently met with AFAD officials in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) to discuss the establishment of an Earthquake Monitoring and Evaluation Center within the Department of Geology and Mining. Ataoğlu expressed his commitment to expedite the process of setting up the center and ensuring its prompt operation.
In light of the tragic impact of the recent earthquake on February 6th, Ataoğlu emphasized the importance of being fully prepared and resilient to such natural disasters. He highlighted the significance of the data and information that will be provided by the Earthquake Monitoring and Evaluation Center once it is operational. Ataoğlu also mentioned the upcoming visit to Adıyaman to commemorate the lives lost in the earthquake and to continue advocating for earthquake preparedness.
Ataoğlu stressed the need to prioritize scientific evidence in building a earthquake-resistant country and assured that the government is fully committed to the establishment of the Earthquake Monitoring and Evaluation Center in TRNC. The collaboration with AFAD and the Department of Geology and Mining exemplifies their dedication to this initiative.
The protocol signed with AFAD marks the commencement of the work to establish the TRNC Earthquake Monitoring and Evaluation Center, signaling a step forward in enhancing earthquake preparedness in the region. As the government moves forward with this project, Ataoğlu remains optimistic that the lessons learned from past tragedies will help pave the way for a more resilient future.