Abu Dhabi: Henrik Smith, Head of the Canadian delegation participating in the 39th Cospas-Sarsat Joint Committee Meeting, has praised the UAE's hosting of the event as a testament to its steadfast commitment to supporting global humanitarian efforts. Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of the meeting, Smith emphasized the importance of the Cospas-Sarsat Programme, a global platform dedicated to saving lives. This programme operates through an integrated satellite-based system that detects and relays distress signals in real time, supporting humanitarian missions and search and rescue operations worldwide.
According to Emirates News Agency, Smith noted that the 39th meeting plays a key role in enhancing the efficiency of the programme's operations. The system currently links around 70 satellites, 130 ground stations, and 30 control centres. Search and rescue missions executed through Cospas-Sarsat result in saving approximately 3,000 lives annually. Smith emphasized the shared humanitarian goal of saving lives and expressed eagerness to work towards further progress in enhancing performance to carry out missions more swiftly and accurately.
Smith also expressed his gratitude to the UAE for its warm hospitality and generous reception. He highlighted the country's dedication to providing an ideal environment for all participating delegations. The meeting holds particular significance as it is taking place in the UAE for the first time. Since joining the organisation in 2009, the country has contributed to advancing the Cospas-Sarsat system, which comprises nearly 45 member states, by applying the highest international standards in search and rescue operations.
