Bhutan PM travels to earthquake-hit Nepal

THIMPHU: Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay travelled to Kathmandu today, accompanied by a medical support team, to provide assistance to the government of Nepal, following the deadly earthquake that struck the nation.

Tobgay personally handed over a cheque for USD 1 million to his Nepalese counterpart as a contribution from Bhutan towards rehabilitation efforts following Saturday's quake that killed over 3,000 people.

Tobgay also conveyed the Bhutanese king's deep concern and anguish for the Nepalese people due to the natural disaster. He also delivered letters of condolences from the king to the prime minister and president of Nepal.

The 63-member Bhutanese team includes medical staff, Royal Bhutan Army (RBA) personnel, medical specialists from the Ministry of Health, and volunteers.

The team will assist in medical treatment of victims of the disaster and is equipped to set up outdoor medical camps.

They are carrying medicines and medical equipment and relief materials, including clothes and blankets.

Tobgay will return by the special flight later today, which will also bring back Bhutanese nationals stranded in Nepal.

The National Flag was also flown at half-mast today to mourn the loss of lives due to the earthquake.

The king and government representatives also offered prayers for the victims of the disaster.