Syria, Chile discuss the exchange of experiences in studies related to earthquakes

DAMASCUS, Aug.15, (ST)-Today, the Minister of Public Works and Housing, Eng. Soheil Abdel Latif, discussed with the Chargé d’Affairs of the Embassy of the Republic of Chile in Damascus, Jose Patricio Briquell Cuevas, and the accompanying technical delegation concerned with disaster management, the exchange of experiences and joint cooperation in studies related to earthquakes.

During the meeting, which was held at the Ministry’s headquarters, the two sides agreed to continue cooperation and coordination between technicians from both sides, and to draw up a report after completing the visit of the Chilean delegation to the provinces affected by the earthquake.

Abdul Latif referred to the good relations between the two countries, which were reflected in popular and governmental sympathy with Syria following the earthquake that struck a number of provinces at dawn on the sixth of last February, explaining the importance of cooperation between the two sides, especially in the subject of earthquake studies.

He in addition talked about the significant negative effects of the shortage of modern engineering equipment and technologies resulting from the economic sanctions imposed on the country, which exacerbated the repercussions of the disaster.

For his part, the Chargé d’Affaires and members of the delegation affirmed the importance of laying the foundations for future interaction between the two sides to open areas for exchanging experiences and joint cooperation to develop codes and norms related to earthquakes, and to adhere to the technical controls and conditions for buildings and facilities in a way that reduces casualties and damages.

B.Q.