261 foreigners missing in disaster-hit Xizang

A total of 261 foreign nationals remained unaccounted for after a massive mudslide hit a border port in Gyirong county, Shigatse, Xizang autonomous region, local authorities said on Sunday.

The foreigners, from 23 countries, include 104 from Nepal, 49 from India, 18 from the United States, 15 from the United Kingdom, six from Canada, six from Australia, four from South Africa and three from Russia.

The figures were announced at a news conference held by the regional government's information office, following joint searches and the cross-checking of information by authorities responsible for foreign affairs, public security, culture and tourism and emergency management.

After multiple rounds of inspections and population verification at the border port, no foreign tourists remained in Gyirong county, said Zhao Peng, vice-chairman of the regional government.

According to Zhao, who also serves as the deputy head of the disaster emergency and rescue command headquarters, the sudden and severe mudslide caused extensive damage to infrastructure and personnel records in the affected area, significantly hampering efforts to trace and verify information about those who are unaccounted for.

He said information on the unaccounted-for foreign nationals had been reported to their respective embassies. Two 24-hour English-language hotlines — 0086-891-6817165 and 0086-183-08026705 — have also been established for the families of the missing foreign nationals.

Foreign nationals currently registered in the county are primarily Nepali border residents, cross-border vehicle crews and Nepali individuals involved in international marriages, all of whom are safe, Zhao added.

"For Nepali border residents wishing to return to their home country, we will carry out transfer, transportation and customs clearance processes in a careful and orderly manner," he said. "For those who voluntarily choose to stay in Xizang, we will provide security and living support."

He emphasized that staff members will consistently respect the wishes and reasonable demands of the Nepali side, adhering to the principles of friendly consultation and prioritizing humanitarian needs.

A thorough evaluation will also be conducted to assess the departure needs of foreign tourists in Xizang, Zhao said, adding that authorities will facilitate their exit through ports in Lhasa, Burang and Zhangmu while ensuring their safe and smooth departure.

Additionally, communication with embassies in China will be maintained and strengthened to report work progress in a timely manner, he added.

Contact the writers at caoyin@chinadaily.com.cn