Nepal calls for regional unity to tackle urbanization, climate crisis
KATHMANDU: Nepal’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, has emphasized that rapid and unplanned urbanization has become a global issue, significantly affecting the Asia-Pacific region.
Speaking at the opening of the 81st session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) in Bangkok today, Dr. Deuba highlighted the urgent need for sustainable and resilient urban development.
Chairing the session under the theme “Resilient and Sustainable Urban Development in Asia and the Pacific,” Dr. Deuba acknowledged that urban areas are engines of growth, innovation, and opportunity, but warned that poor urban planning has led to serious socio-economic and environmental challenges.
“We must prioritize planned urban growth that is inclusive, environmentally sound, and sustainable,” she said, calling for increased investments in green and inclusive cities.
The Foreign Minister also emphasized the importance of strengthening inter-city connectivity, developing robust demographic planning, and mobilizing financial resources from diverse sources to support sustainable urban infrastructure.
Highlighting broader regional challenges, Dr. Deuba noted the presence of financial vulnerabilities, lack of investment in sustainable infrastructure, trade fragmentation, rising protectionism, and a growing digital divide. “This digital gap is widening inequalities between urban and rural communities and demands immediate attention,” she added.
She further stressed the inadequacy of current social protection systems in the region and called for adopting global best practices to build stronger safety nets.
Dr. Deuba warned that the Asia-Pacific region is increasingly prone to climate-induced disasters, including floods, droughts, and extreme weather events. “Our cities and communities are under threat,” she stated. “The Himalayas, which are not only a water source but also the cradle of civilization, are being severely impacted by climate change.”
Calling for urgent investment in climate resilience and early warning systems, she urged collaborative action to safeguard both current and future generations. “Nepal is taking concrete steps in this direction and will host the Sagarmatha Dialogue in May to address climate change and its challenges,” she announced.
Concluding her address, Dr. Deuba emphasized that no country can tackle these challenges alone. “Regional unity and collective action are essential,” she said. “Nepal remains firmly committed to inclusive development, regional cooperation, and the values of the United Nations.”
