BANGKOK, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- Commemorations were held across Thailand along its Andaman coast on Thursday to mark the 20th anniversary of the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami.
Speaking at a memorial ceremony in the southern Phang-Nga province, Deputy Interior Minister Sabida Thaiseth highlighted the country's progress in disaster management and preparedness since the 2004 tsunami, while paying tributes to the thousands of lives lost in the tragedy.
Over the past two decades, Thailand has strengthened its disaster management systems and mechanisms, aligning with international frameworks, which reflects efforts in building resilience and reducing disaster risks for its citizens and the region, Sabida said.
The event underscored the Southeast Asian nation's commitment to fostering international cooperation and raising public awareness of disaster preparedness, and it also serves as a platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge and build resilience against disasters, she said.
"The Thai government remains committed to enhancing disaster management mechanisms, ensuring the safety of our communities and contributing to regional and global security," the official added.
The Indian Ocean tsunami, triggered by a 9.1-magnitude earthquake off the coast of Sumatra on Dec. 26, 2004, claimed about 230,000 lives in countries across Southeast Asia and South Asia.
In Thailand, the tsunami impacted six Andaman coastal provinces, resulting in over 8,000 reported dead or missing. The disaster also caused substantial short- and long-term damage to infrastructure, the economy, society and the environment. ■