Nepal hosts int'l conference on post-quake reconstruction

Nepalese Prime Minister Sushil Koirala appealed for more aid from the international community on Thursday at an international conference on Nepal's reconstruction in the capital.

Koirala inaugurated the one-day meeting by lighting a traditional oil lamp before observing a moment of silence for the deceased in the 7.9-magnitude earthquake, which jolted the Himalayan country on April 25.

Representatives from more than 60 nations and international agencies attended the conference aimed at raising financial support for the quake-ravaged country's reconstruction and recovery process.

Prime Minister Koirala extended his gratitude to all the helping hands, especially China and India, for their immediate support following the massive quake.

"Thank you for not letting us feel that Nepal is not alone in the time of disaster. It's time for all to work collectively for the better future," he said.

The prime minister promised that all aid would reach the intended beneficiaries.

Addressing the conference, Nepalese Foreign Minister Mahendra Bahadur Pandey said, "This is an opportunity to rebuild the country, better and stronger."

Nepal says it needs around 6.7 billion U.S. dollars to rebuild the country from the devastating quake in April, which killed more than 8,700 people, destroyed 500,000 houses and left thousands homeless. Endi