China has handed over nearly NPR 300 million in cash assistance for flood victims in Nepal to the Ministry of Finance on Sunday. Chinese Ambassador Zhang Maoming also delivered cash equivalent to NPR 3.6 million provided by the Chinese Red Cross to Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle. Ambassador Maoming informed that an additional 50 tons of relief materials have arrived in Kathmandu, rescue teams and drones are being brought in, and efforts are underway to repatriate Nepalese nationals stranded in China.
Kathmandu, 14 Bhadra — The Chinese government formally transferred the cash aid announced for Nepal’s flood victims. On Sunday, Nepal’s Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle met with Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Zhang Maoming, who handed over a check amounting to approximately NPR 305 million (USD 2 million). Additionally, Ambassador Maoming also handed over cash worth NPR 3.6 million (USD 200,000) provided by the Chinese Red Cross.
While presenting the relief fund, Ambassador Maoming stated that both Nepal and China are jointly confronting the severe disaster that has befallen the Himalayan region. He conveyed China’s steadfast commitment to Nepal, highlighting messages sent from the Chinese President and Premier to the Nepalese government. The ambassador also shared that various other forms of assistance from the Chinese government have already reached Nepal.
On the same day, two Chinese vessels delivered 50 tons of relief supplies, including tarpaulins, blankets, sleeping bags, medical kits, and biscuits, to Kathmandu. The ambassador conveyed that support will continue to flow. He also briefed the Finance Minister on ongoing efforts to repatriate Nepalese stranded in China due to flooding in the Rasuwa region, facilitating their return through the Korola border crossing in Mustang.
Moreover, Ambassador Maoming informed that skilled rescue personnel accompanied by a Chinese helicopter arrived in Nepal just yesterday to aid those trapped in a hydropower tunnel, with additional technical teams arriving today. He also updated that the Chinese government is expediting efforts to bring drones capable of carrying large rescue equipment, as requested by the Nepalese government, into Nepal.
Receiving the Chinese aid on behalf of the Nepalese government, Finance Minister Wagle expressed gratitude for this significant support. He sympathized with both countries for enduring severe human and material losses due to the disaster and conveyed condolences for the Chinese citizens who lost their lives in the floods, expressing heartfelt sympathy to their families.
Highlighting the devastating impact of global climate change on Himalayan nations, the minister emphasized the need for coordinated cooperation between Nepal and China to tackle such challenges. He also expressed expectations for substantial Chinese assistance in rebuilding the damage Nepal suffered due to the recent floods.
The aid handover event was held in the Finance Minister’s office, where Minister Wagle and Ambassador Maoming observed a moment of silence to honor the citizens of both countries who lost their lives in the floods.
