Havana, June 18 (RHC) -- UN Representative in Havana Laura Melo has praised the Cuban disaster risk management experience and the role of the island’s Civil Defense system in disaster situations.

The Cuban experience can be implemented in other countries to help strengthen their strategies, said the UN official, who stressed the need to advance South-South cooperation, as she addressed participants at the 9th International Congress on Disasters, underway in Havana.

The United Nations support governments and settlements to implement strategies and policies aimed at mitigating the effects of natural disaster at the world level, said Melo and noted that the international organization is increasing community-oriented training courses in preparation for and management of disaster risks.

The Congress on Disasters includes very important issues for discussion, such as quakes and landslides, tropical storms, climate change, international collaboration, and other topics. The event will run through Friday at Havana’s International Convention Center.