He praised the agencies’ efforts in dealing with storms and floods in 2009, noting that updated information systems have improved the coordination of rescue and relief efforts.

Mr. Hai said the first priority of the agencies should be to minimise losses due to natural disasters.

He said that to cope with global climate change, relevant departments and localities should focus on improving their information systems and build a suitable organisation model to meet a growing demand for disaster preparedness, disaster prevention and disaster relief.