Kathmandu— Following a devastating mudslide caused by a glacial collapse in a border area between China and Nepal, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held phone talks with his Nepali counterpart, Shisir Khanal, on Saturday to coordinate relief efforts. The disaster, described as the most serious cross-border incident in recent years, has resulted in significant casualties and missing persons on both sides of the border. China has responded swiftly, committing emergency cash assistance, humanitarian aid, and deploying specialized rescue teams while also sharing critical data with Nepal to support ongoing operations.

Disaster Response and Chinese Leadership

Chinese President Xi Jinping immediately issued instructions for rescue and emergency response work following the disaster, and Premier Li Qiang traveled to the affected area to oversee efforts on the ground. Wang Yi emphasized that China views the situation with great importance, highlighting a recent meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee which authorized aid to Nepal and international rescue cooperation as a demonstration of the countries’ friendship. Two teams of Chinese tunnel rescue experts have already been dispatched to both the disaster-stricken area within China and Kathmandu to provide assistance.

Aid Delivery and Data Sharing

China is currently implementing its package of assistance to Nepal, which includes emergency cash and humanitarian aid; relief supplies are expected to arrive in Kathmandu soon. Beyond material support, China has shared vital information with Nepal, including images, satellite data, and hydrological information related to the disaster zone, as well as early warning data concerning a newly formed barrier lake. Wang Yi stated that arrangements have been made for Nepalese citizens stranded on the Chinese side of the border and efforts are underway to facilitate their return.

Bilateral Cooperation and Future Plans

During the phone conversation, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal conveyed condolences from Nepali leaders to China and expressed sincere gratitude for the emergency humanitarian assistance. He noted that despite both nations being impacted by the disaster, China prioritized offering support to Nepal, demonstrating the strength of their relationship. Khanal also indicated Nepal’s willingness to strengthen cooperation with China in areas such as post-disaster reconstruction, disaster prevention, mitigation, and climate change response, aiming to further enhance the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Both nations have pledged continued collaboration in rescue efforts and are working to locate missing foreign nationals. Future discussions will likely focus on long-term recovery strategies and strengthening cooperation in disaster preparedness.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.