Indian grant of $2 bn to help Nepal recover quickly: Sushma Swaraj

Kathmandu, June 25: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday expressed hope that the $2 billion provided by India, including the $1 billion pledged on Thursday, would significantly help in the quickest possible recovery and reconstruction efforts in quake-ravaged Nepal.

In her departure statement, Sushma Swaraj said India hopes that early implementation of the various hydropower projects and infrastructure projects would help create new avenues of livelihood for the Nepalese people.

Sushma Swaraj, who was here to participate in the International Conference on Nepal's Reconstruction, also met President Ram Baran Yadav and Prime Minster Sushil Koirala.

She also interacted with political leaders and other dignitaries during her visit.

"India stands shoulder to shoulder with Nepal, our closest neighbour with whom we have the most ancient ties. The government of India has pledged to provide $1 billion for Nepal's reconstruction over the next five years.

"This amount is in addition to ongoing grants and credits amounting to over $1 billion for the next five years. We expect that these amounts will significantly help the quickest possible recovery and reconstruction efforts of the government and people of Nepal," she said.

India is ready to stand with Nepal: Swaraj

"We also hope that early implementation of important projects such as Pancheshwar, Arun III and Upper Karnali hydropower projects and Nijgarh airport and Kathmandu-Nijgarh fast track road projects will create new avenues for people's livelihood, enhance the government's revenue and contribute towards speedy post quake recovery and rehabilitation," she said.

IANS