15 January 2025, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Representatives of the Delegation of the European Union to Uzbekistan lead by the EU Ambassador H.E. Mr Toivo Klaar, participated in a comprehensive security training on emergency preparedness at the Earthquake Simulation Center, located on the premises of the Institute of Civil Protection of Uzbekistan under the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

The training, designed to enhance preparedness for emergency situations such as fires, earthquakes, and other disasters, provided participants with practical experience and critical knowledge.

The Earthquake Simulation Center, constructed with the EU funding and officially opened in 2015 within the joint project implemented by the Ministry of Emergency situations of Uzbekistan and UNDP on strengthening disaster risk management capacities in Uzbekistan, is the second-largest complex of its kind globally, following Japan. The Center boasts 10 specialized rooms, including an earthquake museum, training facilities for first aid, room of psychological support for rescuers and an earthquake simulator capable of replicating seismic events of varying magnitudes.

During the training, the European Union Delegation staff underwent a series of activities designed to enhance their knowledge and practical skills for responding to emergencies:

• Knowledge Assessment and Museum Tour: Staff began with a knowledge test and a guided tour of the earthquake museum, which highlights the science and history of seismic activity. Particular attention was given to the Tashkent earthquake of 26 April 1966, a pivotal event in Uzbekistan's history.
• Emergency Communication Platform 112: Participants were introduced to Uzbekistan’s developing single emergency call platform, which is currently in test mode.
• Practical Training and VR Simulations: The training included sessions on fire safety, DO’s and DON’ts in a smoke filled room, first aid rules, and distinguishing between natural and man-made disasters. VR glasses provided an immersive experience of the Aral Sea’s disappearance, a stark example of human-induced environmental disaster.
• Fire Extinguisher Practice: Representatives of the Delegation practiced extinguishing a real fire outside the building, reinforcing hands-on skills.
• Earthquake Simulator: The highlight of the day was the earthquake simulator, which replicated seismic events of varying magnitudes, providing a realistic experience of what to expect during an earthquake.

The EU Delegation extends its gratitude to the Institute of Civil Protection and the Ministry of Emergency Situations for their collaboration and expertise. This training underscores the EU's commitment to ensuring the safety and preparedness of its staff while fostering a culture of resilience and cooperation in disaster response.