Prime Minister Balendra Shah, Australia’s Anthony Albanese discuss flood response

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held a telephone call on Friday as Nepal continued responding to devastating flooding and searching for Australians reported missing after the disaster.

During the 10 a.m. conversation, Shah thanked the Australian government and people for their solidarity after flooding on Aug. 26 along the Bhotekoshi River in Rasuwa district. The disaster caused loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure and property.

Shah also acknowledged Australia’s assistance with rescue and relief operations. That support included a team of specialist drone operators, essential relief supplies and financial assistance.

Nepal, Shah said, was stepping up efforts to locate the missing Australian nationals. He emphasized the longstanding ties between the two countries and said they would continue coordinating on search, rescue, relief and reconstruction.

According to the Nepali government, Albanese expressed concern about the difficulties Nepal faced after the disaster.