KATHMANDU: Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has announced that the Government of Nepal is in the final preparations for the first edition of the Sagarmatha Sambad (Sagarmatha Dialogue), organized by Nepal.

She shared this information during a meeting of the Sagarmatha Sambad Management Committee held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday.

She stated that Nepal is hosting such an international conference for the first time and has decided to establish it as a permanent diplomatic forum, to be organized annually.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working diligently to develop this event as a crucial and impactful platform for Nepal.

Focusing on climate change, the Himalayas, and the future of humanity, the event is scheduled to be held in Kathmandu from May 16 to 18.

Minister Dr. Rana emphasized that the government is committed to making this event a success, as it represents an important platform for Nepal’s presence on the international stage.

She added, “Nepal’s mountains, which are primary sources of water and the environment, are melting at an alarming rate, and the country is facing unimaginable damages due to climate change. This conference will be vital for collectively advocating for these concerns and amplifying Nepal’s call for climate justice at global forums.”

Minister Dr. Rana further explained that the Sagarmatha Sambad is being initiated as a global platform to discuss serious issues related to climate change, both at regional and global levels.

This year marks the inaugural edition of the event.

Through this dialogue, Nepal aims to bring together climate-affected communities, scientists, policymakers, mountaineers, global leaders, and international organizations for discussion and commitment.

As the coordinator of the Sagarmatha Sambad Management Committee, Minister Dr. Rana mentioned that efforts are being made to ensure high-level international participation, with encouraging confirmations received so far.

She also directed officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, other relevant ministries, the private sector, and Nepali embassies worldwide to contribute from their respective positions to make the event successful, highlighting it as a great opportunity for Nepal.

During the meeting, Minister of Forests and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi informed that his ministry is in the final stages of preparation for the Sagarmatha Sambad.

Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai also briefed on the ongoing preparations for the event.

So far, around two dozen countries and over 50 international organizations have confirmed their participation in this global forum.