KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 15
France has handed over emergency humanitarian supplies to Nepal to support relief and recovery efforts in communities affected by the devastating floods of August 26.
The Embassy of France in Nepal handed the consignment to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) on Monday, with French Ambassador-designate Françoise Puig-Inza handing over the assistance to Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation Mahabir Pun.
The relief package includes floor mats, hygiene kits, kitchen kits, water purification tablets, solar lamps and urgent and general medicine kits.
The French Embassy said the supplies were provided in response to requests from the Government of Nepal through the European Union’s Civil Protection Mechanism.
France said it had mobilised resources to support Nepal’s emergency response mechanisms, particularly in severely affected communities.
“In the wake of this tragic disaster, France stands in solidarity with the people and Government of Nepal,” Puig-Inza said. She added that the emergency assistance, along with further support, reflected France and the European Union’s commitment to helping local authorities provide immediate relief and assisting vulnerable communities in recovery and rebuilding.
The French government will also contribute to broader international relief efforts for people affected by the floods through United Nations agencies, the International Federation of the Red Cross and French non-governmental organisations Action Contre la Faim and Triangle Génération Humanitaire, which are already operating in affected areas, according to the embassy.
The August 26 floods caused significant damage in several parts of Nepal, prompting ongoing search, rescue, relief and recovery operations.
The French Embassy expressed condolences to the families affected by the disaster and to the Government of Nepal.