Impact of global warming will be stated clearly in COP 28: PM

By A Staff Reporter, Kathmandu, Nov. 19: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' has said that he will clearly state the impact of global 

warming in Nepal during the 28th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Addressing a peace lamp handover and flag hoisting programme organised by Nepal Mountaineering Association at Kalapatthar of Everest Base Camp, Solukhumbu, he said rather than seeking assistance for mitigating global warming, the right for a good environment would be raised in the conference. 

“We cannot pay the price for things we haven’t committed. Those accountable for carbon emissions should take responsibility and provide compensation through the Climate Fund. Rather than seeking assistance in COP-28, preparations are underway to present the issue as a matter of right rather than a demand,” he added. 

The 2023 UN Climate Change Conference will convene from November 30 to December 12 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) this year. 

The detailed description of the National Adaption Planning and Implementation Plan based on the National Determined Contribution and Agenda on COP-28 will be discussed in a programme where Prime Minister Prachanda will be the chief guest. 

The Prime Minister is scheduled to address the high-level session on December 2.

Prime Minister Prachanda said that a team of experts has proposed six areas concerning, climate finance, adaptation, transfer of mountain-specific technology, capacity building, climate-induced losses and damages, gender equality, youth, children, strengthening climate, and reduction on global climate change, to be raised in COP-28 by Nepal.

Nepal has prioritized issues of management of funds for finance on climate, adaptation and climate related losses and damages, issues of hills and mountains, reeducation of carbon emission and inclusivity, for the COP-28 conference. 

The Prime Minister also pledged to initiate necessary procedures involving stakeholders to ensure the comprehensive development and expansion of the Khumbu region, systematic management of tourist activities, and the overall safety and cleanliness of Mount Everest.

Stating that handing over the lamp and hoisting flag in the Kalapatthar region hold intrinsic importance, he said the visit of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to the Khumbu region has captured the world's attention.

“UN Secretary-General Guterres himself observed the effect of global climate change. The interaction with denizens and people's representatives has helped to globalize the issues faced by people in the climatic region,” he added. 

He further informed that during his address at the 76th General Assembly of the United Nations in New York, he clearly put forward the impact of global warming in Nepal. 

Prime Minister Prachanda also pledged that Nepal would continue to advocate clearly about these climate-related challenges in other forums dedicated to climate discussions.

"In General Assembly I clearly highlighted the irony of having to pay the price for what we haven't committed to. I urged the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Guterres, to personally experience and globalize this issue," he said. 

“The UN Secretary-General visited Nepal in my first invitation, observed the Khumbu region, and engaged with the local community. This holds significant importance," he added. 

He further added that the government is serious about building the infrastructure in the Khumbu region. 

“The government will work tirelessly for the preservation and promotion of Sagarmatha and Lumbini, recognizing their significance in positioning Nepal on the global stage,” he added.

 Prime Minister Prachanda said he had given serious consideration to develop road infrastructure in the Khumbu region. 

The Ministry of Finance has allocated budget to construct a road from Chatara to Lukla, and the government is committed to expediting this construction work, he informed. 

Extending gratitude to the local bodies for starting tracks in the area, he assured that the government would provide assistance to upgrade the roads further.