Diplomacy and natural disasters 

This report revealed the important role of diplomatic and consular offices in helping people during emergencies caused by natural disasters.
In this context it is useful to also remember the contribution of multilateral diplomacy in developing appropriate global cooperation in dealing with such events. 
The 193 members of the United Nations meeting in Sendai, Japan adopted by consensus in 2015 a document entitled “Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030”. Regrettably, this significant strategic document, which was the result of complex diplomatic negotiations, has received modest attention in the mass media.
Tragedies produced by natural disasters are clear proof that global solidarity must not be understood as a simple pumping of funds to alleviate the suffering of the victims of calamities. Developed countries are expected to use in a more efficient way their technical potential in the detection, early warning and adequate management of naturally-caused emergencies.
The full implementation of the Sendai Framework demands tireless collective efforts to make the world safer from the risk of disasters in the decades to come for the benefit of the present and future generations.
Ioan Voicu
Bangkok