Bangladesh offers support to flood-hit Nepal

Bangladesh has offered to provide any support required by Nepal as the country grapples with devastating floods and landslides that have killed over 170 people and left nearly 1,500 missing.

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman spoke to his Nepalese counterpart Shisir Khanal by phone this morning and conveyed Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s condolences to Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah, according to a press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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During the call, Khalilur Rahman expressed deep sorrow over the flash floods and landslides, describing the disaster as a “terrible tragedy”. He said Bangladesh’s thoughts and prayers were with the families who had lost loved ones.

The foreign minister said Bangladesh was ready to provide any assistance Nepal may require as rescue and relief operations continue.

He also said there had so far been no reports of Bangladeshi nationals among those affected and sought Nepal’s support should any such case be identified.

Khanal thanked Bangladesh for its solidarity, saying Nepalese authorities were still assessing the extent of the damage. He said specific needs would be determined after a full assessment of the situation.

Rescuers are searching for survivors after the massive flash flood along the Nepal-Tibet border destroyed homes, roads and bridges, with rescue efforts hampered by continued rain and difficult terrain.