Xi Jinping calls for improved disaster prevention in China

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for enhanced capabilities to prevent, mitigate, and respond to natural disasters following a series of deadly floods and landslides across the country this summer. In remarks published in the Communist Party journal Qiushi, Xi noted that global warming is increasing the frequency and destructive impact of extreme weather events, including torrential rains, typhoons, and droughts.

The call for improved disaster management follows significant loss of life, including 25 deaths from flash floods in Gansu province and 51 deaths from a landslide in Chongqing. Xi emphasized the need for a shift toward pre-disaster prevention, stronger monitoring, and improved early-warning systems. He specifically urged efforts to address gaps in flood-control and drainage infrastructure in northern China.

To safeguard lives, property, and social stability, Xi advocated for the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, and satellites into disaster response. He also stressed that disaster risks must be managed to prevent them from impacting economic, energy, food, and social security sectors.