Kathmandu – 'Sagarmatha Sambaad 'is being kicked off ' today (Thursday) in Kathmandu to highlight climate change impacts on mountains. The event runs until May 18.

Under the theme 'Climate Change, Mountains, and Humanity’s Future,' the conference hosts delegations from 12 countries, 175 foreign guests, and an equal number of Nepalis. Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba leads the organizing committee.

The opening featured an audiovisual presentation, with speeches from Indian and Chinese dignitaries, Azerbaijan’s president (COP-29 chair), and a video message from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

The Plenary Session began after the opening, with countries and organizations presenting their views. Parallel sessions will continue until Saturday.

Participants include politicians, policymakers, researchers, and representatives from 61 national and international bodies, including SAARC, BIMSTEC, the World Bank, and ADB.

A directive committee led by the Prime Minister, a management committee under the Foreign Minister, and an auxiliary team led by Forest Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri are managing the event. Dr. Maheshwar Dhakal of the Ministry of Forests heads the secretariat.

On day three, foreign delegates will take a mountain flight, and the 'Kathmandu Declaration' will be issued at the closing.

Nepal seeks to showcase its conservation efforts and learn from global practices. The dialogue aligns with the UN’s declaration of 2025 as the 'International Year of Glacier Preservation.' 

The government will hold the event biennially to foster dialogue and coperation.