Nepal has not sought financial compensation from India or any other country over the devastating flash floods that recently struck the Himalayan nation, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said on Friday, clarifying remarks that had triggered reports about a possible compensation demand.
Speaking to ANI, Khanal said neither he nor Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the government had formally asked India, China, the United States or any other country for compensation. He said Nepal's position was instead focused on drawing international attention to the effects of climate change and the vulnerability of Himalayan countries.
Nepal Clarifies Climate Compensation Reports
Khanal's clarification comes after comments from Nepalese officials about the need for climate justice following the catastrophic floods.
Earlier statements had highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate-related disasters on countries such as Nepal, which contribute relatively little to global greenhouse-gas emissions but face severe consequences from changing weather patterns and environmental conditions. Those remarks were subsequently reported in some quarters as a demand for compensation from major countries, including India.
Khanal has now rejected that interpretation, saying Kathmandu's appeal is for the international community to recognise the wider climate consequences facing Nepal.
Focus on Climate Change Impact
The foreign minister said Nepal's concern is centred on how climate change is affecting the Himalayan region and the need for collective preparedness.
The latest disaster has intensified discussion about the vulnerability of mountain communities to extreme weather, glacier-related hazards and floods. Nepal has argued that the scale of the devastation demonstrates the need for greater international cooperation on climate resilience.
Khanal's comments therefore seek to separate Nepal's broader climate-justice argument from a formal financial compensation claim against India or other countries.
Devastating Floods Hit Nepal
The clarification follows one of the country's worst recent natural disasters. A glacier collapse on August 26 triggered a massive ice, rock and mudslide that caused extensive flooding, particularly along the Trishuli River and areas near Nepal's border with China.
The disaster caused widespread destruction of homes, roads and infrastructure. Reuters reported that more than 1,250 people had died and thousands remained missing, while Nepal estimated total financial losses from the disaster at about 387.5 billion Nepalese rupees, equivalent to approximately $2.56 billion.
The government has also begun planning reconstruction and early recovery in the affected areas.
India Continues Relief Assistance
India has meanwhile continued humanitarian assistance to flood-hit Nepal.
Additional relief material was delivered to Nepal on September 4, with Indian assistance including supplies intended to support people affected by the disaster. India's response has included multiple relief flights as Kathmandu continues rescue, recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
The assistance has remained an important element of India-Nepal cooperation during the crisis.
Regional Cooperation Emphasised
Khanal's latest statement places the emphasis on cooperation rather than a bilateral dispute over financial liability.
Nepal shares close geographic, economic and people-to-people ties with India, while both countries are also exposed to environmental risks associated with the Himalayan region.
The foreign minister's comments suggest that Kathmandu wants the recent disaster to be viewed within the broader global discussion on climate change, disaster preparedness and support for vulnerable countries.
What Nepal's Statement Means
The clarification does not withdraw Nepal's concerns over climate-related losses or the need for greater international action. Instead, it makes clear that the Nepalese government has not formally sought compensation from India.
With recovery operations continuing and the scale of the disaster becoming clearer, Nepal is now facing a substantial rebuilding challenge. The government is expected to focus on restoring essential infrastructure, supporting displaced communities and assessing long-term reconstruction requirements.
The statement also comes as international attention remains focused on the climate risks facing the Himalayan region and the need for stronger disaster preparedness across South Asia.
