Taiwan dispatches medical aid to Nepal

2015-05-04

A Taiwan Root Medical Peace Corps team is set to arrive May 2 in Nepal, further expanding the ROC’s relief presence in the quake-hit Himalayan nation.

The team will operate in conjunction with Nepal government medical and eductional institutions in six villages severely affected by the April 25 magnitude-7.9 temblor. Two tons of supplies are assembled for the emergency care and surgery mission on the outskirts of Kathmandu.

Premier Mao Chi-kuo said the earthquake dealt Nepal a severe blow in loss of human life and property. “We are eager to extend a helping hand and share our experitise in responding to such disasters.

“An advance team sent by the ministries of health and foreign affairs is on the ground in Kathmandu conducting assessments, while private-sector medical personnel and relief materials are in country as well.”

Taiwan’s Nepal contingent includes a 37-member group of aid workers from nongovernmental organizations such as Buddha’s Light International Association, International Search and Rescue Operations Taiwan, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hosptial and ROC Red Cross Society.

Accordng to the premier, the prompt response to the disaster by the local private and public sectors demonstrates the nation’s capabilities in providing humanitarian aid on a global basis.

“Shortly after the quake, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reached out to the Nepal government and pledged US$300,000 toward relief efforts,” he said. “The Ministry of Health and Welfare also set up three dedicated donation accounts for this purpose.

“Taiwan will continue assisting and supporting relief efforts as a responsible member of the international community.”

Separately, four of the six ROC nationals missing after the quake have been found. As of 1 p.m., May 1, a total of 246 ROC nationals who were in Nepal when the earthquake hit are known to be safe. The MOFA is mobilizing all available resources to locate the remaining two.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=229934&CtNode=413)