International Dialogue on Climate Change and Mountain Ecosystems Begins in Kathmandu
The two-day 'International Dialogue' on climate change impacts in mountainous regions commenced today in Kathmandu, aiming to draw global attention to the adverse effects of climate change on mountains.
The event, titled 'Mountain, Human and Climate Change,' features participation from experts representing 25 countries and will conclude tomorrow. According to the Ministry of Forest and Environment, over 200 attendees, including representatives from mountainous and small island countries, the international community, development partners, international NGOs, the private sector, and civil society, are taking part in the dialogue.
The primary objective of this expert dialogue is to bolster actions based on mountain ecosystems. Dr. Maheshwor Dhakal, Joint-Secretary at the Ministry, highlighted that the dialogue seeks to enhance the capacity of climate change negotiations and pressure the international community to mobilize the necessary resources for climate adaptation and mitigation.
The summit also aims to foster collaboration among mountainous countries and stakeholders for initiatives under the United Nations Convention on Climate Change. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' is scheduled to inaugurate the event. Following the inauguration, ten sessions across various disciplines will focus on three major thematic areas, as noted by Joint Secretary Dhakal.
The dialogue intends to develop a concrete roadmap and strategy to address mountain-related climate issues. The outcomes of this expert dialogue will be linked to the 60th session of the United Nations Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) on Climate Change, scheduled to be held in Bonn, Germany, in June. Nepal plans to institutionalize the agenda by incorporating it into the upcoming COP-29 discussions.
