Himal Press 
Australian PM Anthony Albanese
KATHMANDU: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday expressed solidarity with Nepal as the country observes a national day of mourning following the devastating flash flood that struck the Bhotekoshi River on August 26.
Addressing Parliament, Albanese said the disaster, triggered by a glacier collapse, had caused widespread devastation on both sides of the border, with Nepal bearing the brunt of the destruction.
“So many are dealing with the devastation of loss. The loss of loved ones, the loss of homes, the loss of entire villages and livelihoods and everything that gives daily life its rhythm and meaning,” he said. “And so many are living with the agony of not knowing, clinging to the hope for what with each passing day is taking on the proportions of the miracle.”
Albanese also said 36 Australians are unaccounted for and said the hearts of Australians are with their families and with their friends.
“On behalf of Australia, I express my deepest condolences to all Nepali people affected by this disaster,” Albanese said. “Today, as Nepal marks a national day of mourning, I want our Nepalese friends to know that they do not carry this burden alone. Our thoughts are with them and all those affected by this disaster.”
The Australian prime minister urged Australians to hold on to hope and pray for those still missing. He also acknowledged Australians who had donated to the emergency action appeal, saying their response demonstrated a shared commitment to humanity in the face of tragedy.
“No matter the scale of what we face, we face it together and we face it with our shared spirit of humanity,” Albanese said.
