Kathmandu, May 17:
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli inaugurated the first-ever Sagarmatha Sambaad (Everest Dialogue) in Kathmandu, positioning the event as a global platform to address the urgent climate crisis and advocate for the protection of the Himalayas. He emphasized that safeguarding the Himalayas is vital for the wellbeing of the Earth, oceans, and humanity.
Speaking at the grand opening ceremony, PM Oli highlighted that the theme of the Sambaad — “Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity” — reflects Nepal’s lived experience and urgent reality.
“Our emissions are negligible, yet we face devastating impacts. Glaciers are melting, landslides and floods are worsening. Still, we stand resilient,” he said.
The dialogue, organized by the Government of Nepal, saw the participation of ministers, political leaders, climate experts, and activists from over a dozen countries. The event aims to encourage global cooperation, exchange of ideas, and joint climate action under the symbolic spirit of Mount Everest (Sagarmatha).
Nepal’s Climate Commitment
PM Oli reaffirmed Nepal’s strong climate stance by unveiling Nepal’s Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) during the Sambaad, committing to net-zero emissions by 2045 — five years ahead of the global target. The NDC 3.0 was presented to COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev.
“Climate change is a global emergency. It demands a response rooted in justice, responsibility, and solidarity,” said PM Oli.
Global Support and Voices
In a video address, UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised Nepal’s climate leadership and called for urgent international collaboration to protect mountain ecosystems. He noted his recent visit to Nepal and emphasized the global implications of melting glaciers and disrupted ecosystems.
India’s Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav urged mountain nations to unite against environmental threats, while Chinese delegate Xiao Qi promised continued cooperation from China in supporting ecological governance in the Himalayas.
COP29 Presidency representative Mukhtar Babayev stressed the importance of financing climate solutions and holding nations accountable for their pledges to mobilize US$ 1.3 trillion annually by 2035.
Nepal’s Foreign Minister and Environment Minister Speak
Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba highlighted the rising threat of extreme weather events in Nepal and stressed that mountains are global assets — acting as freshwater reserves and carbon sinks.
Environment Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri called for immediate attention to the alarming rate at which Nepal’s glaciers are retreating. He emphasized that the Himalayas — often called the “Third Pole” — are critical for one-fifth of humanity.
Global Participation
The three-day Sambaad features 350 participants, including 175 international delegates and representatives from 61 global and regional organizations, such as SAARC, BIMSTEC, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank.
A welcome dinner was hosted by Prime Minister Oli to honor the international guests and delegates.