Statement by H.E. Sheikh Hasina | On the Devastating Flash Floods in Nepal

The news of the devastating flash floods in Nepal has filled me with deep sorrow. The sudden flooding in Rasuwa district, including areas around Timure, Syabrubesi and Rasuwagadhi, has brought immense suffering to many families and communities. Precious lives have been lost, many people are still missing, and countless families are facing pain, uncertainty and destruction.

At this painful hour, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Government of Nepal and the friendly people of Nepal. I pray for the eternal peace of those who lost their lives, for the swift recovery of the injured, and for the safe rescue of those who remain missing.

Nepal is a close friend of Bangladesh. Our two countries are bound by history, geography, culture, regional cooperation and the shared hopes of our peoples. During my visit to Kathmandu in 2018 for the Fourth BIMSTEC Summit, I witnessed once again the warmth, dignity and resilience of the Nepali people. I remember that visit with deep respect and affection.

In moments of tragedy, neighbours must stand beside one another. Bangladesh understands the pain of floods, river erosion, earthquakes and climate-related disasters, and has always stood beside Nepal and other friendly countries during natural calamities. At this difficult hour, Bangladesh should extend all possible practical cooperation to Nepal. If requested by the Government of Nepal, Saidpur Airport in northern Bangladesh may also be used as a humanitarian logistics point for relief operations and emergency assistance.

This disaster is also a reminder that South Asia faces common threats from climate change, fragile mountain ecosystems, sudden floods, landslides and extreme weather. These challenges do not respect borders. They require stronger regional cooperation in early warning systems, disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, river management, data sharing and humanitarian response.

I express my sincere respect for the rescue workers, security personnel, medical teams, local authorities, volunteers and ordinary citizens who are working under extremely difficult conditions to save lives and assist affected communities.

The people of Bangladesh stand in full solidarity with the people of Nepal in this hour of grief. May Nepal find strength, unity and courage to overcome this tragedy and rebuild the lives of those affected.

Sheikh Hasina
President, Bangladesh Awami League,
Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh