‘Participation in UNGA has enhanced country’s profile’

By A Staff Reporter, Kathmandu, Aug.1: Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal has said that the address, delivered by Prime Minister Balendra Shah at the General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly, is expected to mark an important step towards turning climate justice into a reality for climate-vulnerable countries such as Nepal.  

Talking to journalists upon his arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport on Wednesday morning, he said that PM's strong call to the international community to simplify and facilitate the mobilisation of resources through climate finance mechanisms, such as the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD), and to translate climate justice into practice has drawn global attention. He termed PM Shah's address 'historic in many respects' as he highlighted fundamental aspects of Nepal’s national interests, including climate justice. PM Shah had addressed the UNGA on September 24. He also held meetings with the Secretary-General of the UN Antonio Guterres and Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese. 

According to FM Khanal, Nepal’s participation in the 81st session of the UNGA has enhanced Nepal’s diplomatic profile and that the international community had responded positively to Nepal’s proposals.

More than 33 bilateral meetings held by the Nepali delegation had also contributed to further strengthening Nepal’s relations with the countries concerned. The Foreign Minister expressed confidence that a clear foundation had been laid for further strengthening Nepal’s diplomacy and making a tangible contribution to promoting the national interest in the days ahead. "Nepal had strongly raised issues including climate justice before the international community. During the General Assembly, Nepal had clearly and firmly presented its position on the devastating Bhotekoshi flood as well as other national and international issues," he said.