PM Oli addresses climate change threat at BIMSTEC Summit

KATHMANDU: At the ongoing 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit in Bangkok, Thailand, Nepal’s Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, emphasized the existential threat posed by climate change to humanity.

He specifically pointed out that for Nepal, the risks are even greater due to the country’s unique geographical and environmental challenges.

In his address, Prime Minister Oli stated that while the mountains of Nepal contribute to reducing global temperatures, they are facing disproportionate impacts despite the country’s minimal carbon emissions.

“These mountains are fighting an unequal battle against climate change, and its effects are spreading beyond the Himalayas to the lower Terai and coastal areas,” he said.

Oli highlighted that the impact of climate change is not confined to the high-altitude regions but extends to the plains and coastal areas.

He also announced that Nepal will host the inaugural Everest Dialogue in May to further emphasize the relationship between the Himalayas and the oceans. “I look forward to seeing many of you there,” he added.

The Prime Minister pointed out the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in the region, including rising sea levels, cyclones, and intense storms.

“The BIMSTEC region is grappling with various extreme climatic events such as landslides, cyclones, thunderstorms, and heatwaves,” he said. He stressed the urgent need for collective action to protect the future of the region’s people. “To safeguard our future, it is essential that we act decisively on climate change issues and work together as a region,” he emphasized.

Additionally, Prime Minister Oli called for increased investment in hydropower, advocating for cross-border energy grids and renewable energy projects to boost regional energy trade.

He also urged for the removal of trade barriers and supply chain disruptions, underscoring the importance of embracing rapid technological changes and collaboration.

“Ongoing disaster preparedness, public health services, and inclusive economic policies should remain at the heart of our regional issues. We must promote social and cultural harmony and foster a strong sense of community,” he stated. “Sustainable development goals should be integrated into national and regional policy frameworks to address issues in a fair and inclusive manner.”

In closing, Prime Minister Oli conveyed a message of peace, prosperity, and well-being from the three million people of Nepal, expressing gratitude to Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and the Thai government for their warm hospitality and the successful organization of the summit.

He also extended condolences to Myanmar and Thailand for the loss of lives and property due to the recent devastating earthquakes.

Reflecting on the two decades since the inception of BIMSTEC in Bangkok, Prime Minister Oli noted that the Bay of Bengal region has witnessed tremendous changes, both in terms of economic development and challenges. “Over these two decades, the Bay of Bengal region has become one of the fastest-growing economic areas globally, yet significant challenges remain. The search for peace and prosperity continues,” he concluded.