The Typhoon Committee (TC) convened its 50th session in Hanoi on February 28.

Scene at the Typhoon Committee's 50th session(Photo: kinhtedothi.vn)

Established in 1968, the TC is an inter-governmental body organised under the joint auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO). It aims to promote and coordinate the planning and implementation of measures required for minimising the loss of life and material damage caused by typhoons in Asia and the Pacific.

The four-day event is set to feature a review of typhoons in 2017, reports by hydrometeorology working groups, an update on the TC’s action strategy for 2017 – 2021, and discussions on policy building for regional member countries to mitigate storm risks and damage.

The TC took the occasion to honour nations, meteorological forecast centres, and individuals, which have contributed significantly to its operation to date. The Vietnam Hydrometeorological Forecast Centre was awarded the TC’s Kintanar Award.

At the event, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Tran Hong Ha said the committee plays an increasing important role in supporting regional member countries in reducing human and asset losses caused by natural disasters.

Kaveh Zahedi, UESCAP Deputy Executive Secretary, stressed the committee is a visionary initiative to develop action frameworks.-VNA