Nepal Reverses Stance, Allows Foreign Rescue Teams for Floods

Nepal has reversed its initial refusal to accept foreign search-and-rescue teams, now permitting experts from India, China, Australia, and South Korea to assist in operations following devastating flash floods that killed hundreds and left nearly 2,000 people missing. The decision, announced on August 28, came after intense diplomatic pressure from countries whose nationals are among the missing. The government of Prime Minister Balendra Shah had initially stated that Nepal's own security agencies were capable of handling the rescue and relief efforts. However, a senior government official acknowledged that the position changed due to significant international concern.