Australia Announces Additional AUD 15 Million for Nepal

Dragon Media News Desk

Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong discussed strengthening Nepal–Australia relations and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest during a meeting in Melbourne.

Both ministers expressed satisfaction with the countries’ longstanding friendly relations, founded on democratic values, mutual respect and strong people-to-people ties. They also emphasized expanding cooperation in the days ahead.

During the meeting, Wong expressed sympathy for families and communities affected by the recent floods in Nepal. She said Australia would stand with Nepal in its rescue, early recovery and reconstruction efforts, and announced an additional AUD 15 million for the disaster-affected country.

Australia had earlier committed AUD 11 million for emergency response. The new assistance will focus on relief and early recovery efforts.

Minister Khanal thanked the Australian government and people for their swift and generous humanitarian assistance during the disaster. He said the solidarity shown during the crisis had further strengthened the longstanding goodwill and friendly relations between Nepal and Australia.

The ministers also discussed the shared risks that Nepal and countries in the Pacific region face because of climate change, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.