Statement By  H.E. Mr. Ali BAHREINI Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva Before 8th Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction - GP2025 MSP3: Investments in reducing risk and building resilience to accelerate progress in sustainable development  Geneva, 5 June 2025 ***** بسم الله الرحمن الرحیم Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, It is an honor to address this Plenary at the 8th Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction. We face a pivotal moment. Escalating and interconnected risks demand collective, sustained, and cross-border investment in resilience. The Islamic Republic of Iran views disaster risk reduction as a strategic investment in stability and sustainable development. For it to succeed, this investment must be inclusive, diversified, and protected from political interference. Guided by our 10-year National Strategy, Iran prioritizes: -- Integrated financing and risk-informed investments; -- Expansion of disaster insurance; -- Strengthening early warning systems and risk data; -- And promoting community-based resilience, especially for vulnerable populations. At the regional level, we proudly host three key platforms: -- The Regional Center for Urban Water Management; -- The APDIM, under UNESCAP; -- And the ECO-RCRM, enhancing cooperation across ECO Member States. These efforts reflect Iran’s strong belief in regional solidarity, data-driven governance, and shared responsibility. Excellencies, Disaster risk reduction, like all humanitarian efforts, must remain apolitical and impartial. Disasters do not recognize borders — or sanctions. Restrictive political and economic measures against disaster-prone nations hinder global preparedness and resilience. We respectfully urge this platform to reaffirm that disaster risk reduction must be guided by humanitarian principles and international solidarity. To fulfill the Sendai Framework, we must not only invest more — but invest wisely: broadening partnerships, tools, and resources while ensuring that political barriers never stand in the way of protection, preparedness, or peace. Thank you. ---