Nepal PM seeks $2b for reconstruction

Nepal’s prime minister appeals for $2 billion to rebuild his country, shattered by two massive earthquakes in three weeks that have killed thousands and devastated the impoverished nation’s infrastructure.

Prime Minister Sushil Koirala, whose year-old government has faced criticism over the speed of its response to the quakes, says that the administration has set up a national rehabilitation and reconstruction fund, and urged donors to help.

“Our target is to raise $2 billion. Government has earmarked $200 million as a seed money for the fund with a request to donors communities and private sector to make necessary contribution,” Koirala says.

“Rehabilitation and reconstruction is very important for us and we hope our friends will come with a large heart to assist.”

— AFP