Beijing steps up disaster relief efforts in Xizang and Nepal

Mainland authorities are stepping up disaster relief support for both Nepal and the Xizang Autonomous Region, also known as Tibet.

This as Nepal's disaster agency say it has counted 1,003 deaths so far with more than 3,900 people still missing.

China, on the other hand, reported 16 deaths and 546 missing.

Rescuers toil away at the mudslide-stricken Gyirong Port hoping to reopen a major highway in the Xizang Autonomous Region.

This as more than 100 workers from the China Railway Group raced against time to remove as many rocks and debris in the area as possible.

Addressing the casualties of the devastating mudslide, Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun says central authorities are making every effort to search for and rescue missing Chinese and foreign nationals in the Himalayan region.

He adds Beijing is maintaining close contact with foreign embassies to jointly conduct such operations and handle relevant follow-up arrangements.

In Nepal, local officials announced the nation is actively cooperating with its international partners to try and rescue the thousands that remain missing in the mountainous area.

Specialised tunnel rescue teams from India and China are mobilised at the affected hydropower sites.

A Chinese team is working in coordination with the Nepali army at the Upper Trishuli 3A project site.

This has been an exceptionally painful and difficult time for Nepal.

We deeply share the anguish of those who have lost their loved ones.

Meanwhile, In the nation's capital of Kathmandu, Buddhist monks and local devotees lit candles and gathered for prayers for those who lost their lives in the disaster.

Participating monks say they hope their actions can offer some comfort for the suffering community.