IRGDD hosts Pre-Sagarmatha Sambaad to generate suggestions for the climate summit

April 7, Kathmandu: The International Relations and Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD), in collaboration with the Government of Nepal, on Monday organized a Pre-Sagarmatha Sambaad to highlight the impact of climate change on mountains and humanity.

The event, held as a build-up of the government’s inaugural climate-change conference, Sagarmatha Sambaad (Mt. Everest Dialogue) from May 16–18, featured State Minister for Forests and Environment Rupa BK as the chief guest.

IRGDD Chairperson and former ambassador Dr Sharmila Parajuli Dhakal welcomed attendees, emphasizing the need for robust diplomatic efforts.

ICIMOD Director General Dr. Pema Gyamtsho stressed returning to nature, while Dr. Popular Gentle, climate advisor to the Former PM, noted the lack of a permanent negotiation team.

Former Finance Secretary Madhu Marasini highlighted the need for climate financing and budget allocation for climate action, and mountaineer Dawa Tashi Sherpa urged collective action.

Former Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) President Chandiraj Dhakal pledged support of the private sector, and Prof.Dr. Biraj Singh Thapa advocated for green hydrogen policies.

Thanking everyone for their participation, Dr Parajuli Dhakal said suggestions would be forwarded to the Sagarmatha Sambaad Secretariat.