Bangladesh mobilizes three-stage engagement in Nepal’s flood response, pledging $1 million aid

KATHMANDU, Sept 5: Following a catastrophic flash flood along northern Nepal’s Bhote Koshi River corridor on August 26 that swept through Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts, Bangladesh has rolled out a structured three-stage diplomatic and relief engagement to support response and recovery operations.

The disaster—triggered by a high-altitude ice-rock avalanche near the Lhende River along the border—devastated local settlements and infrastructure. In response, leadership in Bangladesh initiated the first stage of engagement by immediately extending formal expressions of state solidarity.

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman sent messages of deep sorrow to President Ram Chandra Poudel and Prime Minister Balendra Shah.

Demonstrating national unity, the Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad adopted a condolence motion during its parliamentary session on August 27, observing a minute of silence and urging swift government intervention.

The second stage translated diplomatic solidarity into material relief. Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman held a telephone conference with Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal to discuss emergency requirements and operational modalities. Shortly after, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir formally presented a $1 million USD (~NPR 152 million / BDT 12.3 crore) contribution to Nepal’s Ambassador Ghanshyam Bhandari for the Prime Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund.

The third stage completed the formal diplomatic protocols in both capitals. State Minister Kobir signed the official condolence book at the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka, while Bangladeshi Ambassador to Nepal Md. Shafiqur Rahman joined diplomatic colleagues at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kathmandu to sign the condolence register.

The phased engagement shows close regional neighborliness, combining direct financial contribution with sustained diplomatic support during Nepal’s disaster recovery.