MM Rahmatullah: Bangladesh on Wednesday announced US$ 1 million, about Tk 12.3 crore, in assistance to Nepal to support relief and recovery efforts following devastating floods and mudslides in the country’s northern region.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir handed over the contribution at State Guest House Padma to Nepal’s Ambassador to Bangladesh H.E. Ghanshyam Bhandari. The assistance was extended to the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund of Nepal.
A letter from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman addressed to Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah was also handed over during the ceremony.
Expressing solidarity with the people of Nepal, the State Minister said Bangladesh stands by its Himalayan neighbor in this difficult time. He noted that the government and people of Bangladesh share the grief caused by the sudden natural disaster and are committed to supporting Nepal’s ongoing humanitarian efforts.
Earlier, on 1 September, Humayun Kabir signed the Condolence Book opened at the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka. The Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad also adopted a Condolence Motion on 27 August, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives and damage caused by the floods and landslides.
The floods and mudslides that hit northern Nepal last week have left dozens dead and displaced thousands, damaging homes, roads and infrastructure across several districts.
Officials said the assistance from Bangladesh will be used for emergency relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction in the affected areas.
Nepal’s Ambassador Bhandari thanked the government and people of Bangladesh for the prompt support and solidarity. He said the contribution reflects the longstanding friendly ties between the two countries and will help Nepal in its recovery efforts.
Bangladesh and Nepal have maintained close cooperation on regional connectivity, trade and disaster management under the framework of BIMSTEC and SAARC.