Aug 29, Kathmandu - The Nepali government has requested specialized technical support from neighboring countries for forensic investigations, rescue operations, and disaster management following recent flooding and landslides. 

During a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal announced that Nepal is seeking technical assistance from neighboring nations to facilitate the rescue of individuals trapped in tunnels, locate survivors, conduct forensic examinations, and manage the deceased.

He further stated that an 11-member rescue technical team from India has already been deployed, and teams from China are expected to arrive shortly. Additionally, Nepal has received over 57 tons of relief materials from India, with supplies continuously arriving from countries including China, Japan, and Australia.

Minister Khanal highlighted that coordination with international embassies has streamlined communication with families of tourists affected by the disaster, and processes for identifying and repatriating bodies are underway.

The Foreign Minister also mentioned ongoing technical monitoring of flood-affected areas, especially downstream lakes formed by water accumulation and potential risks. He assured that the impact of the floods is confined to specific regions, and most major tourist destinations in Nepal remain safe and accessible.

Addressing concerns over international aid, Minister Khanal emphasized that Nepal is actively seeking and accepting international assistance for the massive reconstruction efforts required. He refuted reports suggesting that Nepal has rejected foreign aid, calling such claims "completely baseless and false."