Kathmandu: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey has asserted that the conservation of mountains is a collective responsibility, emphasizing the importance of preserving mountain cultures for future generations. Inaugurating the first-ever International Everest Summiteers’ Summit-2025, Minister Pandey highlighted the significance of safeguarding the Himalayas and called for collaborative efforts to address environmental concerns.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Pandey underscored the need for enhanced infrastructure, training, and environmental protection to improve the living standards of local communities and promote mountainous tourism. He recognized the Himalayas as a “bridge of civilization, culture, and co-existence,” urging timely climate actions to counter the threats of global warming and climate change on these majestic mountains.
Acknowledging the dedication of Sherpa communities, guides, and rescue teams, Minister Pandey extended special honors to them for their contributions to making mountain travel safer and more nature-conscious. He also honored several national and international climbers, including Kanchha Sherpa, part of Edmund Hillary’s 1953 expedition team, with a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award.’
The event, organized by Everest Alliance Nepal, brought together over 300 Sagarmatha summiteers from 25 countries, offering a platform for collaboration among mountaineers, policymakers, conservationists, and local communities. The summit aimed to promote sustainable mountain tourism, environmental protection, and the uplifting of local communities.
Speaking at the conference, Nepal Tourism Board’s CEO Deepak Raj Joshi highlighted the potential of mountaineering to boost adventure tourism in Nepal. Additionally, Member-Secretary at the National Sports Council, Tankalal Ghising, and Sagarmatha Aarohi Sangh’s President, Dambar Parajuli, emphasized the summit’s role in establishing Nepal as a hub for adventurous mountain tourism.
In conclusion, the event aimed to assemble Sagarmatha summiteers to share their inspirational journeys, challenges, and lessons learned, fostering a renewed global commitment towards mountain conservation.