A TOP level conference will look at how Glasgow can be protected against shocks like major flooding, disease and lengthy power cuts.

And it will investigate how local residents, business and the economy can "thrive not just survive" potential disaster.

City business and community leaders today met top officials from the Rockefeller Foundation.

The American-based organisation, which was set up to promote the well-being of mankind throughout the world, has selected Glasgow as one of the first cities to join a global network of the world's 100 resilient cities.

It was chosen to be part of the $100million project by a panel of judges, including former US President Bill Clinton.

Cities were measured on how prepared they are to "withstand the shocks and stresses of our disruptive world."

The meeting in the City Chambers will discuss how organisations can work together to protect Glasgow from potential disasters.

Delegates will hear about the many measures already in place in the city to minimise the chance of problems occurring and to lessen the impact if they do.

Glasgow born Neill Coleman, Rockefeller Foundation vice president, flew in from the US to attend the conference. He said: "City governments are on the frontline of dealing with acute shocks and chronic stress.

"Glasgow is part of a group of cities leading the way on resilience to better prepare for, withstand and recover more effectively when disruption hits. Through this type of planning, cities can be better prepared for the unexpected."

City council leader Gordon Matheson said Glasgow was proud to be one of the first members of the 100 Resilient Cities network.

He added: "The recent flooding in England graphically demonstrated the need for cities to be prepared for the worst. Incidents of exceptional weather are increasing in frequency due to climate change and this is a challenge no city can afford to ignore.

"This new exciting partnership will build upon firm foundations already in place in Glasgow to produce and deliver a strong strategic plan to minimise the chances of problems occurring and in the event they do, soften the impact on the city, its citizens and economy."

Cities which are part of the new network receive funding and technical support to develop and implement city-wide plans for building their resistance against major events.

vivienne.nicoll@eveningtimes.co.uk