US to Support Reconstruction in Bhotekoshi Flood-Affected Areas

Kathmandu : Minister for Women, Children, Gender and Sexual Minorities and Social Security Sita Badi held a meeting with US Acting Ambassador to Nepal Meghan Boldin. The meeting focused on strengthening Nepal-US cooperation in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of flood-affected areas, combating human trafficking and advancing social development.

During the meeting, Acting Ambassador Boldin expressed condolences to the families and communities affected by the floods in Rasuwa and paid tribute to those who lost their lives. She also expressed concern about the situation in the affected areas and the ongoing rehabilitation efforts, and reaffirmed the US commitment to continued cooperation with Nepal.

Minister Badi said Nepal-US diplomatic relations, established in 1947, are based on mutual respect, trust and development cooperation. She said the floods that struck the Nepal-Tibet border area on August 26 had created additional challenges for the safety, protection and education of women, adolescent girls and children.

Badi briefed the ambassador on the government’s efforts to mobilize available resources, equipment and human resources for the rescue, relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction of flood-affected communities. She said the ministry has prioritized the protection and social security of women, children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities and other marginalized communities at risk.

The two sides also discussed measures to combat human trafficking and trafficking in persons. Minister Badi said the government has taken the issues raised in the US Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report seriously. She said the National Policy Against Human Trafficking, 2082, and the related national action plan are currently being implemented.

Badi said efforts are underway to strengthen mechanisms for victim protection, investigation and prosecution, rehabilitation and assistance. She also informed the meeting that Nepal has initiated the process of amending the Human Trafficking and Transportation (Control) Act, 2064, and adopted the National Labour Migration Policy, 2082, to promote safe, orderly and regular labour migration.