FM Deuba calls for collective action key to tackling climate change; holds talks with Indian counterpart

Kathmandu / March 18: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba underscored the severe impacts of climate change on developing nations, emphasizing the need for collective cooperation to mitigate its effects.

Speaking at a session on climate change during the Raisina Dialogue 2025 in New Delhi, India-organized by the Ministry of External Affairs of India-she highlighted Nepal’s vulnerability, stating that the country is at the forefront of climate-induced challenges.

Dr. Rana reaffirmed Nepal’s advocacy for climate justice on global platforms, calling for united efforts to address climate change. She stressed that its repercussions extend beyond mountainous regions, affecting the entire world.

The Foreign Minister also reiterated Nepal’s demand for climate compensation, emphasizing the urgency of broader discussions on climate financing mechanisms. Citing the devastating consequences of climate change in Nepal, she recalled the catastrophic heavy rains in September last year, which claimed over 250 lives and caused damages amounting to approximately Rs 45 billion.The disaster inflicted severe damage on critical sectors, including drinking water, roads, energy, irrigation, and agricultural infrastructure.

Advocating for a new approach to climate financing, Dr. Rana remarked, “The world is moving in a new direction. Traditional aid is no longer sufficient. It is time to explore alternative funding strategies, including public-private partnerships.”She further urged for additional compensation for Nepal as one of the most climate-vulnerable nations.

Additionally, she highlighted the need for technical assistance, particularly in enhancing early warning systems for rainfall, floods, and landslides, to strengthen Nepal’s disaster preparedness.

Foreign Minister Dr Rana holds talks with Indian counterpart S. Jaishankar

Foreign Minister Dr Arzu Rana Deuba and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a meeting in New Delhi, India, on Tuesday.

The two leaders met on the sidelines of the 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue 2025 organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, India.

Minister Dr Rana has termed the meeting as ‘a highly fruitful interaction’. Writing on her X account (formerly Twitter), Minister Dr Rana mentioned that the two leaders took stock of bilateral ties, discussing ongoing engagements across sectors and identifying avenues for enhancing people to people and diplomatic exchanges.

“I expressed my appreciation for India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and conveyed Nepal’s continued prioritization of relations with India,” she stated.

During the meeting, exchange of visits, mutual cooperation, the issues of trade transit between the two countries, progress achieved on water resources development and others were discussed. RSS