Australia’s Ambassador Meets PM Shah, Thanks Australia for $11 Million Aid

Australian Ambassador to Nepal Simon Ernst paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Balendra Shah at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar today.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shah thanked the Australian Government for its support, solidarity and humanitarian assistance to Nepal during the difficult period caused by floods and other disasters. He expressed particular appreciation for Australia's support in search, rescue and relief operations, including the deployment of disaster response teams, expert personnel, and the provision of relief materials and equipment.

Prime Minister Shah also thanked Australia for announcing humanitarian assistance worth AUD 11 million for Nepal. He said the support reflects Australia's friendship and solidarity with Nepal. The two sides discussed continued cooperation in relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction in flood-affected communities, as well as reducing disaster risks and strengthening preparedness in the coming days.

Shah also highlighted the growing risks faced by mountain countries such as Nepal due to climate change. He stressed the need for easier, adequate and predictable access to international funding mechanisms for addressing climate-related loss and damage.

During the meeting, Ambassador Ernst expressed sadness over the losses caused by natural disasters in Nepal. He also praised Nepal's strong and effective presence at the United Nations recently. The meeting also covered various aspects of Nepal-Australia relations, disaster management, climate change, human resource development and long-term cooperation.