Kathmandu: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has described mountains as humanity’s shared global resources. In her welcome statement at the Opening Session of the Sagarmatha Sambaad, organized for the first time on the theme of ‘Climate Change, Mountains and the Future of Humanity’, she emphasized that mountains are a crucial source of fresh water for millions.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Rana highlighted that the Himalayas are experiencing the severe impacts of climate change, with glacier melting rates significantly increasing. This phenomenon has adversely affected the daily lives of mountain communities. She further explained that mountains play a vital role in storing and supplying freshwater, acting as natural carbon sinks, and supporting biodiversity and natural resources. They provide sustainable climate solutions through reforestation, watershed protection, and eco-tourism.
Minister Rana expressed concern over climate change-induced disasters, such as floods and glacial lake outbursts, which have caused significant damage and suffering. She mentioned that the Sagarmatha Sambaad aims to foster meaningful conversations on these important issues, impacting regions from the Global North to the Global South.
The Foreign Affairs Minister pointed out the unprecedented stress faced by the Himalayas, revealing the fragile nature of mountain ecosystems and the lack of effective global climate action. Nepal, as a mountainous country, bears a disproportionate burden of climate change’s negative impacts. She praised local communities, especially women, indigenous people, youth, and marginalized groups, for their efforts in combating climate change.
Minister Rana stressed the importance of recognizing local knowledge and empowering communities with resources to build adaptive and sustainable solutions. Nepal has committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, with hydropower being its largest clean energy source. She noted that Nepal’s community forest program has significantly increased forest cover and become a model for participatory conservation globally.
She called for a global alliance based on justice and solidarity to tackle the climate crisis and urged for an effective loss and damage fund accessible to countries in need. Minister Rana emphasized the need for climate finance, adaptation support, and technology transfer to support vulnerable countries like Nepal.
The Minister concluded by stating that the forum would explore the connections between climate change, regional and international peace, security, and stability, as well as its impacts on migration, food security, and disaster risks. She expressed hope that the Dialogue would inspire new ideas, foster cooperation, and enhance political commitment to address climate change and its existential threat to humanity’s future.