So, as the Commonwealth rallies around the governments and people of India and Bangladesh, we are once again forced to face the persisting reality of climate change and natural disasters.

Currently, UNOSAT is supporting Bangladesh with population exposure analysis as part of a suite of responses that the country can use to manage the impact and aftermath of Cyclone Amphan.

So, as we explore specific steps to support countries who face the twin challenge of a natural disaster and a pandemic, CommonSensing is an excellent example of the kind of collaboration that will save lives and help us bravely enter the much-anticipated 'new normal'.

It is clear that we need more resources, such as the Commonwealth Disaster Risk Finance Portal, to help countries facing hurricanes and cyclones to have, at their fingertips, a range of preparedness financing options.

In the Commonwealth, we will continue to use our convening power, partnerships, innovation, and advocacy to support and stand in solidarity with India and Bangladesh, our nations in other regions that are bracing themselves for hurricane and cyclone seasons, and those who face the often forgotten challenge of drought.