President orders full mobilization for Nepal flood rescue

South Korea is mobilizing all available resources to aid in the search and rescue of its citizens following severe floods in Nepal. President Lee Jae-myung convened an emergency meeting to address the situation, emphasizing that the safety and lives of South Koreans are paramount.

"There is no excessive response when it comes to protecting the lives and safety of our citizens," President Lee stated during the meeting. He directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, relevant government agencies, the South Korean embassy in Nepal, an dispatched rapid response team, and local Korean companies to pool all personnel and resources for the rescue efforts.

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I hope you will actively consult through all diplomatic channels with the Nepalese government to ensure that the resources needed for search and rescue are deployed.

The floods, which occurred in the mountainous regions of north-central Nepal, have resulted in nine South Koreans going missing. An additional ten South Koreans are stranded but confirmed to be safe. The missing individuals are reportedly employees of Korea South-East Power and Doosan Enerbility, who were working at a local hydroelectric power plant.

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There is no excessive response when it comes to protecting the lives and safety of our citizens. I hope everyone will mobilize all available resources and do their best with the resolve that there is no excessive response.

President Lee also stressed the importance of close cooperation with the Nepalese government. He urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to utilize all diplomatic channels to ensure necessary resources are deployed for the rescue operations and to explore any potential support South Korea can offer to Nepal. The president also called for a thorough check on the safety of other South Koreans staying in nearby areas and for swift protective measures to prevent further casualties.

Expressing deep condolences to the people and government of Nepal for their losses, President Lee pledged South Korea's commitment to providing humanitarian aid for swift response and early recovery efforts. He acknowledged the challenging conditions on the ground, including the destruction of roads and bridges and difficulties with communication, and vowed to stay updated on the evolving situation.

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I offer my sincere condolences to the people and government of Nepal. Please review what support our government can provide for a swift response to the loss of life and property and for early recovery.