UN Highlights Nepal’s Climate Leadership as a Learning Opportunity for Global Community

UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a powerful video message at the inaugural Sagarmatha Sambaad, held in Kathmandu. He expressed solidarity with Nepal and emphasized the urgent need for global dialogue on climate change. Guterres highlighted the alarming rate of glacier melt in Nepal, urging the international community to take immediate action to combat climate change and support vulnerable nations.

Climate Crisis in Nepal

In his message, Guterres underscored the severe impact of climate change on Nepal’s glaciers, which have been melting at an unprecedented rate. He noted that the country has lost nearly one-third of its ice cover in just over three decades. The Secretary-General pointed out that glaciers in Nepal are now melting 65 percent faster than they did in the previous decade. This rapid loss poses significant risks to the region’s water supply, as shrinking glaciers will lead to reduced river flows in major Himalayan rivers such as the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra. Guterres warned that these changes could result in devastating consequences for communities, including increased flooding, droughts, and landslides.

The Importance of Dialogue

Guterres emphasized the importance of dialogue, or “sambaad,” in addressing the climate crisis. He acknowledged that while vulnerable countries like Nepal did not cause climate change, they are bearing the brunt of its effects. The Secretary-General called for global cooperation to tackle these challenges, highlighting that the world has much to learn from Nepal’s proactive climate leadership. He praised the country’s local adaptation plans, initiatives for early warning systems, and reforestation efforts, all of which demonstrate a commitment to addressing climate change.

Global Action Required

The UN Secretary-General urged immediate action to limit global warming to 1.5°C, stressing that the largest emitters must lead the way. He called for the acceleration of renewable energy adoption and the fulfillment of climate finance commitments, including the $1.3 trillion goal established at COP29. Guterres also highlighted the need for developed nations to double their adaptation finance to at least $40 billion this year and to provide substantial support for the loss and damage fund aimed at assisting the most vulnerable populations.

A Collaborative Effort

Guterres concluded his message by reinforcing the necessity of bold collaboration across nations and sectors to achieve climate goals. He reiterated that the United Nations stands ready to support these efforts, emphasizing the critical nature of working together to combat the climate crisis. The Secretary-General’s message serves as a rallying cry for global unity in the face of an urgent and escalating challenge.

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