Kathmandu, December 2

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ emphasizing the urgent need to address the torment of rising temperatures affecting the mountains.

Addressing at the 28th Conference of Parties on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai, UAE on December 2, PM Dahal expressed deep concern over the recent IPCC report’s findings on climate-induced disasters in the Himalayas. 

He highlighted the alarming loss of one-third of Nepal’s glaciers, with a dire warning of potential further losses by the end of the century.

Underlining the Himalayas’ significance as the foundation of human civilizations, ecosystems, and biodiversity, he stressed their role in providing global services and supporting livelihoods downstream.

“Despite Nepal’s minimal contribution to global emissions, the country faces disproportionate and damaging impacts of climate change, leading to severe disasters such as landslides, floods, wildfires, glacier lake outbursts, and drought,” he stated. 

In his plea for climate justice, Prachanda condemned the injustice inflicted upon Nepal, urging an immediate end to this crisis. Quoting the UN Secretary-General’s experiences on melting ice in Antarctica and Nepal’s glaciers, he emphasized the united crisis faced by different regions.

The Prime Minister unveiled Nepal’s National Adaptation Plan and NDC implementation guidelines, demonstrating the country’s commitment to the Paris Agreement.

“Nepal aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, utilizing hydropower potentials and maintaining 45 percent forest coverage.”

However, he highlighted serious financial and technological gaps hindering climate change adaptation and mitigation plans.

As the chair of LDCs, PM Dahal  appealed for more predictable, adequate, and equitable resources and technologies for LDCs from developed economies and the international community.

He stressed the disparity between developed countries’ pledges and actions, calling for an urgent raise in ambitions and fulfillment of commitments.

“Developed countries must align their pledges with actions, raise their ambitions, fulfill commitments, and scale up climate finance to address the US $100 billion shortfall. Adaptation finance must be doubled by 2025, ensuring fair financial arrangements without conditions, constraints, and compliances,” he stated in his remarks. 

The Prime Minister stressed the need for a predictable, simplified, and adequate Loss and Damage Fund for LDCs and mountainous countries. He urged solidarity and urgent action and recommended initiating a dialogue on mountain and climate change.