Nepal-China floods: S’pore leaders send condolences, to put together humanitarian assistance package
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The floods hit the Nepal-China border on Aug 26, leaving at least 160 dead and 1,500 missing.
PHOTO: AFP
SINGAPORE – Singapore’s leaders on Aug 27 sent their condolences to those affected by the severe floods along the Nepal-China border, adding that the Republic is putting together a humanitarian assistance package to support relief efforts.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said in a Facebook post on Aug 27 that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is in touch with the Nepali and Chinese authorities to provide consular assistance to affected Singaporeans.
MFA is also in touch with their next of kin, PM Wong said, adding that he was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and devastation caused by the floods.
“My deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, and to all those affected by this tragedy,” PM Wong said.
“Our thoughts are with the people of Nepal and China during this difficult time, and with the authorities and emergency personnel working tirelessly on rescue and recovery efforts. We hope for the safe return of those still missing.”
Minister of Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan, in a Facebook post on Aug 27, said the government is putting together a humanitarian assistance package to support relief efforts in Nepal and address the immediate needs of affected communities.
The Singapore High Commission in New Delhi is also deploying a consular response team to Nepal to provide further assistance on the ground, he said.
He added: “My deepest condolences and sympathies to those affected by the severe floods along the Nepal-China border. Singapore stands in solidarity with the people of Nepal and China during this difficult time.”
He also urged Singaporeans in the affected areas to stay safer, remain vigilant, keep a close watch on local developments and follow the advice of the local authorities.
Rescue teams scoured devastated zones on Aug 27 to find more than 1,300 people missing a day after flash floods and landslides along the border killed at least 180, sweeping away entire villages.
Many of the missing are foreign tourists caught in the disaster that the US Geological Survey believe was caused by a glacial collapse that sent forth a overwhelming flow of icy debris.
Among them are a group of 47 hikers, including two Singaporeans, travelling with tour company Himalayan Glacier.