US Under Secretary highlights innovation and tourism ties at Ascent Summit 2026

Kathmandu / May 31: Visiting US Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Sarah B. Rogers participated in the Ascent Summit 2026 in Kathmandu, emphasizing stronger innovation, tourism, and economic cooperation between the US and Nepal.

Delivering keynote remarks at the summit, Rogers highlighted the longstanding partnership between the two countries and underlined how adventure tourism, entrepreneurship, and technological innovation are expanding bilateral opportunities.

She noted that collaboration in safety standards, new technologies, and expedition management is essential to improving Himalayan mountaineering experiences and strengthening Nepal’s tourism sector.

Rogers joined a diverse group of participants including Sumnima Udas, Member of Parliament and Chair of the International Relations and Tourism Committee, renowned mountaineer Conrad Anker, expedition leaders, rescue professionals, tourism entrepreneurs, journalists, and outdoor industry representatives from Nepal and abroad.

The Ascent Summit 2026, organized by the U.S. Embassy in Nepal in partnership with the Nepal Tourism Board and Seven Summit Treks, brought together over 1,400 participants involved in Everest expeditions and mountain tourism.

Discussions focused on how Nepal’s mountaineering heritage and U.S. innovation can contribute to safer expeditions and a more robust adventure tourism economy.

During her visit, Rogers is also scheduled to meet senior Nepali government officials, members of the American Chamber of Commerce, and alumni of U.S. exchange and education programs.

Her visit reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to strengthening U.S.–Nepal relations through deeper economic cooperation, innovation partnerships, and people-to-people ties.