The European Commission (EU) has announced support worth €100 million (equivalent to Rs 11.30 billion) for the reconstruction efforts in Nepal post the April 25 earthquake.

Visiting EU Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development, Neven Mimica, on Thursday announced the funding in the International Conference on Nepal's Reconstruction in Kathmandu.

Commissioner Mimica also announced a package of up to €5 million for technical assistance, to support the government of Nepal in its reconstruction efforts.

Speaking at the Conference, Commissioner Mimica said, “It is very important for us to provide support over the longer term for the rehabilitation of Nepal. We want to underline our ongoing commitment to helping the people and government of Nepal over this very difficult time. Our support will help those who have been hardest hit by the earthquake – the poor, women and the agricultural sector."

The European Commission is also doubling its humanitarian assistance from €6 million to €12 million, bringing early recovery funding for this disaster to humanitarian organisations. On top of immediate assistance, these funds will address unmet needs such as shelter, livelihoods, health and logistics.

“The EU affirms its solidarity with the people and government of Nepal. It is important that while the remaining humanitarian needs are met, the focus is now on long-term reconstruction. The additional assistance will contribute towards building a more resilient Nepal and help families rebuild their lives”, said Christos Stylianides, Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management.

This support comes in addition to the assistance from Member States and the deployment of the European Commission's humanitarian aid and civil protection experts to the crisis area, it is said.