KATHMANDU: Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel emphasized that climate change and the sustainability of trade are global challenges that require collective action and concerted efforts.
Speaking at the 3rd annual conference on “Climate Change and Sustainability of Trade in South Asia,” organized jointly by the World Trade Organization and Kathmandu University in Kahtmandu, DPM Paudel highlighted that Nepal is at the forefront of climate change vulnerability, facing significant socio-economic and infrastructure challenges as a result.
He suggested that decentralizing production centers and diversifying supply chains could mitigate risks to trade infrastructures.
Finance Minister Paudel expressed hope that the conference would address pressing climate change issues in South Asia and help build a shared understanding among policymakers, researchers, and private sector representatives.
This, he said, would enable them to devise effective strategies for the future.
He also stressed that Nepal’s efforts in tackling climate change, despite its minimal contribution to the problem, should be highlighted. Mitigation and adaptation actions, he suggested, should be prioritized.
Additionally, the Finance Minister called for the development of climate-resilient infrastructures to prevent disruptions in supply chains.
Representatives from nine countries, including Nepal, India, Bangladesh, China, Turkey, and Indonesia, attended the event.
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