Kathmandu [Nepal], Sept 16 – The United States has pledged continued support for Nepal’s flood relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts, with US Chargé d’Affaires Megan Bouldin saying Washington has provided more than $5 million in health, humanitarian and forensic assistance following the August 26 disaster.
Bouldin conveyed the US commitment during a courtesy meeting with Prime Minister Balendra Shah at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar on Wednesday.
Bouldin conveyed US President Donald Trump’s offer of support for Nepal and expressed the US government’s sympathies and condolences to those affected by the disaster, according to the US Embassy in Kathmandu.
She also thanked the Nepali government for its assistance in the search for missing American nationals and highlighted the FBI’s ongoing support to the Nepal Police in identifying disaster victims.
The US assistance is intended to help provide answers to American and Nepali families and others awaiting information about their missing loved ones, the embassy said.
During the meeting, Shah thanked the US government for its solidarity and support to Nepal during the disaster.
Shah said both Nepali and foreign nationals had been affected by the disaster and linked the floods to the impacts of climate change. He stressed the need to strengthen global cooperation and collective efforts to reduce the risks posed by climate-related disasters and address their impacts.
Bouldin expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property caused by the floods in Rasuwa and extended condolences to bereaved families and affected communities.
She said the US government stood in solidarity with Nepal during the difficult period and was ready to provide further support and cooperation for relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction.
The meeting comes ahead of Shah’s planned visit to New York for the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where he is scheduled to address the General Debate on September 24.
Shah and Bouldin also discussed opportunities to deepen economic and commercial cooperation including expanding opportunities for American and Nepali businesses. Shah highlighted Nepal’s tourism potential and said Nepal would always welcome US investment.
