Australia pledges additional $15 million to flood-hit Nepal

KATHMANDU: Nepal and Australia have agreed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in disaster response, climate resilience, education, trade and investment, with Australia announcing an additional Australian dollar 15 million in assistance to flood-affected Nepal.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced during a bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal in Melbourne on Thursday.

The two ministers exchanged views on further strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest, according to Minister Khanal’s secretariat.

The two ministers expressed satisfaction with the longstanding close, friendly and cordial relations between Nepal and Australia. They emphasized the need to further expand cooperation based on democratic values, mutual respect and strong people-to-people ties.

On the occasion, Australian Foreign Minister Wong expressed deep sorrow and sympathy for the families and communities affected by the recent devastating floods in Nepal. She said Australia stood with Nepal in its post-disaster rescue, early recovery and reconstruction efforts.

Minister Wong announced an additional A$15 million in assistance for flood- and disaster-affected communities in Nepal.