Nepal Prime Minister Balendra “Balen” Shah proposed a joint climate resilience mechanism involving Nepal, India and China during his first address to the United Nations General Assembly.
Shah called for the creation of a Himalayan Climate Resilience Mechanism, led by the three countries, to improve cooperation on climate-related disasters in the Himalayan region.
Under the proposal, Nepal, India and China could share satellite data and expertise, monitor vulnerable glacial lakes, strengthen early-warning systems and coordinate assistance during cross-border disasters, according to Shah’s speech.
Shah said the Hindu Kush Himalaya supports nearly two billion people through its water resources, ecosystems, agriculture and livelihoods.
His proposal came after devastating floods in Nepal that, according to figures cited by Shah, killed at least 1,400 people and left more than 6,000 missing. He described the disaster as a warning about the risks facing the Himalayan region.
Shah also expressed Nepal’s gratitude to India, China and other countries for assistance following the floods.
The proposal places India and China alongside Nepal in a regional initiative focused on climate monitoring, disaster preparedness and cross-border response. It marks a significant focus of Shah’s maiden UNGA address on cooperation among the three Himalayan neighbours.
