KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has established an Environment Diplomacy Section for the first time to institutionalize diplomatic efforts related to climate change and environmental issues and make them more effective.
According to the Secretariat of Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, the ministry decided to establish the section in response to current needs, particularly in view of the growing impacts of climate change.
Based on an Organization and Management (O&M) Survey conducted by the ministry, the new section has been placed under the Economic, Social Development and Environment Diplomacy Section of the United Nations and Specialized Organizations Division.
Nepal has been actively participating in national, regional, and international forums on climate change and environmental protection. The new section has been established to advance these efforts in a coordinated and institutionalized manner, facilitate international diplomatic initiatives on climate and environmental issues, and coordinate with relevant national agencies.
Foreign Minister Khanal said climate diplomacy should not be limited to participation in international conferences and programs but should instead be pursued as a long-term institutional priority. He said focusing solely on participation in UN climate change conferences and other programs would not be sufficient to enhance the effectiveness of Nepal’s climate diplomacy.
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