08/28/2026
Statement by Global Bank President Ron Nechemia on the Devastating Floods in Nepal and China
Global Bank is deeply saddened by the devastating floods and debris flows that have struck communities in Nepal and China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. The disaster has caused a tragic loss of life, left people missing and injured, displaced families, damaged homes and critical infrastructure, and disrupted livelihoods and essential services.
“On behalf of Global Bank, I extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and my sincere hope that those still missing are found safely,” said Global Bank President Ron Nechemia. “I also extend my wishes for the full recovery of the injured and express my profound sympathy to every person whose home, livelihood, or community has been affected.”
President Nechemia expressed his deep respect and gratitude to the emergency responders, rescue teams, medical professionals, humanitarian personnel, volunteers, and local communities working under extraordinarily difficult and dangerous conditions to save lives, locate the missing, and assist those in need.
The disaster is a powerful reminder that severe weather and mountain hazards can affect communities across borders. Reducing future losses will require stronger risk monitoring, timely early-warning systems, effective emergency communication, coordinated preparedness, resilient critical infrastructure, and sustained investment in the capacity of institutions and communities to act before hazards become catastrophes.
“Disaster-risk reduction must begin before an emergency, and reconstruction must address the vulnerabilities revealed by it,” President Nechemia said. “Across the Himalayan region, the risk information and operational lessons generated by this disaster should guide where and how infrastructure, essential services, and affected communities are rebuilt.”
Global Bank stands in solidarity with the people of Nepal and China during this period of rescue, mourning, and recovery. Through the Global Bank Disaster Risk Reduction and Reconstruction Facility (GBDRRRF), the Bank advances an integrated approach linking risk analysis and preparedness with recovery and reconstruction.
The relevance of that approach to this disaster is direct. Evidence concerning flood paths, slope failures, infrastructure damage, and service disruptions should inform reconstruction decisions. Restoring homes, transport links, utilities, and public services without addressing the risks exposed by the disaster could recreate the conditions for future loss.
The immediate priorities remain saving lives, assisting displaced families, locating those still missing, and restoring essential services. As recovery proceeds, reconstruction should protect communities more effectively and strengthen their capacity to withstand future hazards.
May every affected family and community find strength, comfort, and hope in the days ahead.
