Nepal earthquake: DPM Teo Chee Hean visits Gurkhas, thanks them for service to Singapore

SINGAPORE- Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean visited the Gurkhas in Singapore on Sunday, a day after an earthquake hit their home country Nepal.

He said on his Facebook page that he was briefed on the situation there.

"Our thoughts are with our officers and families. We thank the many generations of Gurkhas for your service to Singapore," he said. DPM Teo, who is also the Minister for Home Affairs, added that the Singapore Civil Defence Force, the Singapore Police Force the Singapore Armed Forces, and members from the Gurkha Contingent are ready to depart to Nepal to help in search and rescue operations, victim identification and medical support.

On Saturday evening, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also wrote on his Facebook page that he was saddened to learn of the powerful earthquake that struck Nepal, and gave his "deepest sympathies and condolences to the many families affected".

He added: "In particular, the Gurkhas in our Gurkha Contingent must be worried about families and friends back home. Our thoughts are with them."

jalmsab@sph.com.sg

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