Preparations for Inaugural Sagarmatha Sambaad in Final Stages

Preparations for the first-ever Sagarmatha Sambaad (Sagarmatha Dialogue), Nepal’s premier international climate dialogue, are nearing completion ahead of its official launch in Kathmandu from May 16 to 18.

Organizers confirmed that all logistical and technical arrangements have been finalized to meet international standards, ensuring a successful and impactful event. The dialogue is being hosted by the Government of Nepal at the Soaltee Hotel under the theme: “Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity.”

Named after the world’s highest peak—Sagarmatha (Mount Everest)—the high-level forum is designed to address urgent global environmental concerns, particularly the disproportionate impact of climate change on mountainous regions and vulnerable communities.

This biennial event is set to bring together over 400 participants, including 140 international delegates from 40 countries. Attendees include ministers, senior government officials, diplomats, donor agency representatives, environmental experts, development leaders, and climate justice advocates.

The three-day event will feature one high-level plenary, 12 parallel sessions, and several side events. Discussions will focus on a range of climate-related issues: the vulnerability of mountain ecosystems, climate-induced disasters, sustainable green economies, climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and global partnerships to combat the climate crisis.

According to Lok Bahadur Paudel Chettri, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Coordinator of the Sambaad’s Publicity Committee, the dialogue aims to establish Nepal as a key platform for multi-stakeholder, inter-regional global discussion on pressing environmental challenges.

Dr. Maheshwor Dhakal, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Forests and Environment and Member-Secretary of the Sambaad Secretariat, emphasized that the event will draw global attention to the fragility of mountain environments and the need for climate justice for local communities.

To underscore the theme, a mountain flight has been arranged for participants on the final day, offering firsthand views of the Himalayas’ vulnerability. The event will conclude with the adoption of the Kathmandu Declaration, which will outline collective commitments to climate action.

Organizers hope the dialogue will serve as a critical milestone for Nepal, enabling it to showcase its conservation successes and advocate for stronger international climate commitments. The outcomes and insights from the event are expected to inform future policy decisions and international negotiations on climate action.