KATHMANDU, June 5: Australia has provided medical supplies to the Nepal Army to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Ambassador of Australia to Nepal, Felicity Jane Volk handed over the medical supplies to Nepal Army Chief of General Staff, Prabhu Ram Sharma, at the Tribhuvan International Airport on Saturday. 

An aircraft belonging to the Australian Air Force brought in the medical supplies. "These supplies are intended to support the Nepal Army's ongoing efforts in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic," Nepal Army said in a press statement.

On the occasion, Lieutenant General Sharma, on behalf of the Nepal Army, expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Volk for the support extended by the government of Australia. 

The materials delivered on 5 June include AUD$1.8 million worth of surgical masks, face shields and gloves, which were requested by the Nepal Army and donated by the Western Australian Government.  This support is in addition to the AUD$7 million announced on 21 May, which is enabling established NGOs to provide medical equipment and oxygen for hospitals and training for health workers.  The Australian Government continues to support the provision of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal, including through support to COVAX.

“Australia is joining with partners across the region to support urgent healthcare needs, including through the provision of PPE to protect those working on the frontlines of the health response,” said Ambassador Volk. “Australia and Nepal have a long-standing history of working together in times of crisis, and the assistance provided through today’s flight demonstrates the warmth that Australians have for the people of Nepal.”

 
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