Kathmandu. India, China and the World Bank are coordinating immediately to provide financial assistance for rescue and reconstruction of flood-affected people in Nepal.

After the news of the floods in Bhotekoshi came out at 10.35 am, Finance Minister Dr. World Bank Country Director for Nepal, David Sislen, said that Rs 25 billion could be provided as emergency assistance from various sources.

India, a friendly southern neighbour, has asked the government to send a list of immediate relief materials needed for the flood victims.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sishir Khanal, in coordination with the Prime Minister, Finance Minister and other senior ministers, said preparations were underway to bring the Indian aid to Kathmandu today itself.

Likewise, northern neighbour China has also pledged to provide immediate cash assistance. Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Zhang Maoming, has urged the government through Finance Minister to initiate the process to send money to Nepal.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of the government for its commitment of generous support from neighboring countries and donor agencies, Finance Minister Dr Khatiwada said. Swarnim Wagle is holding discussions on the cooperation modality through inter-governmental coordination.

A meeting of the Council of Ministers held today declared the affected municipalities of Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading as ‘disaster-hit areas’.