11th Gulf Seismic forum begins in Doha

DOHA, Feb 17 (KUNA) -- The 11th Gulf Seismic Forum began in Doha on Monday, with in participation of experts and specialists in seismology and seismic engineering.
"Earthquakes are the most complicated natural phenomena, that happen suddenly without any warning and cause huge damage and losses of lives and properties", said Chairman of Public Civil Aviation Authority in Qatar Abdullah Al-Subaie in the opening session.
He pointed out that over two million people were killed in earthquakes around the world during the last century, in addition to devastating effects on vital facilities, infrastructure, social, cultural, and scientific landmarks of the countries.
He considered that such events and forums would enhance the need of exchanging ideas, opinions, and future cooperation between participants for more joint researches and studies to reduce catastrophic effects involving material damage and human losses caused by earthquakes.
The three-day forum will discuss earthquakes, seismic engineering, earthquake hazards, and ways to reduce them.
The forum, hosted by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority, aims to benefit from research and modern technologies in order to provide the necessary measures to reduce seismic risks and alleviate human suffering and material losses resulting from these risks in various parts of the world, especially in the Arab Gulf region. (end) nnd.nhq