Nepal Urges Stronger Global Climate Action to Protect the Vulnerable Himalayan Region
Nepal has urged the international community to take stronger and more effective measures to address the growing impact of climate change on mountain regions, particularly the Himalayas, during the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye. Addressing the opening plenary, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal called on world leaders to translate existing climate commitments into practical action. He also proposed establishing a dedicated work programme on Mountain and Climate Change, stressing that the challenges faced by mountain countries deserve greater attention in international climate negotiations. Highlighting Nepal’s vulnerability despite its limited contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, Khanal referred to the devastating disaster of August 26 as a Himalayan Tsunami. He said the disaster had claimed more than 1,400 lives, while over 5,000 people remained missing.
The Nepalese Foreign Minister also emphasised the importance of keeping the global warming limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius within reach. He called for the inclusion of mountain-specific indicators in climate adaptation strategies and climate finance frameworks to ensure that the particular needs of vulnerable regions receive adequate consideration. Nepal’s participation at COP31 reflects its efforts to secure stronger international cooperation, increased climate financing and practical measures to address the environmental challenges facing mountain communities. Through its appeal, Nepal has highlighted the need for a more inclusive approach to global climate action, with particular attention to protecting vulnerable populations and preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem from the consequences of climate change.
