US Central Command Head D.Petraeus meets with Kazakh Minister for Emergency Situations

ASTANA. January, 15. KAZINFORM /Narymbek Ismagulov/ Minister for Emergency Situations Vladimir Bozhko met with the U.S. Central Command Head, General David Petraeus, Kazinform reports.

During the meeting the parties discussed the issues on prospects of implementation of the program of military cooperation in disaster management between the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kazakhstan and the relevant structures of the United States for 2009-2010. The Program is aimed at preparation and training of rescue workers, firefighters, experts in the field of crisis medicine, as well as the technical upgrading of the Ministry of Emergencies of Kazakhstan. Furthermore, exchange of experience and organization of joint exercises and competitions are planned. As D. Petraeus noted, the U.S. National Guard subdivisions and operating forces units are in charge of the issues on emergency situations which assist local agencies in emergencies. According to D. Petraeus Kazakhstan is one of the main priorities for the U.S. Central Command. ?I am pleased to note that Kazakhstan has real opportunities for exchange of experience with American military men. We plan to increase the number of joint activities with Kazakhstan next year?.