Premier Mao Chi-kuo today expressed grief and condolences for those killed or injured by the strong earthquake that took place yesterday (April 25) in Nepal. The government and private sector will help with disaster relief and rehabilitation in any way possible, he pledged.
Executive Yuan Spokesperson Sun Lih-chyun stated that ROC representative to India Tien Chung-kwang was visiting Nepal on official business at the time of the quake. Afterward, Tien immediately conveyed the ROC's willingness as a member of the world community to extend a hand, and said that the government can send relief workers without delay if Nepal's authorities should need help from Taiwan.
Premier Mao today also directed the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) and other relevant agencies to open accounts for fundraising, Sun pointed out. The MOHW is in charge of relevant government tasks, while the Red Cross Society of the Republic of China (Taiwan) is responsible for private-sector fundraising. In addition, the Executive Yuan welcomes crowdfunding by the public through online platforms set up in accordance with the law.
The ROC government has donated US$300,000 to date, Sun pointed out. It is also coordinating with Nepal's authorities on material assistance. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately set up an emergency response task force to directly coordinate with Nepal and will provide necessary assistance depending on the country's needs.