KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 26
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has emphasized the necessity of collective efforts at institutional and individual levels, both domestically and internationally, to address the challenges posed by climate change.
Speaking at a program organized by the Ministry of Forests and Environment to review the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29), the Prime Minister underscored the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness and ensuring sustainable protection through collaborative actions.
He reaffirmed the government's commitment to leading the management of climate finance to combat the climate crisis effectively.
Highlighting the increasing land aridity and its adverse effects, PM Oli stressed the need for raising community awareness and taking proactive steps to mitigate pollution caused by human activities. "Although we have not significantly contributed to global warming, we are disproportionately bearing its impacts," he stated.
The Prime Minister further pointed out that the issues related to climate change in mountainous regions extend beyond the concerns of mountain nations. He explained that the global temperature system is closely linked to the mountain ecosystem, and its degradation poses a significant climate challenge. "Our efforts must span from protecting mountains to safeguarding seas," he asserted.
Referring to his address at the 79th United Nations General Assembly, where he advocated for climate compensation for Nepal, the Prime Minister noted that Nepal has designated 24% of its land for environmental conservation. He also urged stakeholders to prepare for COP30 while evaluating Nepal's participation and outcomes from COP29.
The UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) was held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11-22, focusing on global climate action. The review program assessed Nepal's participation in COP29 and outlined future strategies to tackle climate change.
The event was attended by Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal, Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Minister for Forests and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi, members of the federal parliament, UN resident representatives, policymakers, and local government representatives.