Kathmandu, September 20
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has established an Environmental Diplomacy Section for the first time, aimed at institutionalising and strengthening diplomatic efforts related to climate and the environment.
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal’s secretariat said the ministry decided to establish the section in response to current needs, given the impact of climate change.
Based on the ministry’s Organisation and Management (O&M) survey, the section will operate under the “Economic, Social Development and Environmental Diplomacy Section” structure within the UN and Specialised Agencies Division.
Nepal has continuously and actively participated in national, regional, and international forums on climate change and environmental protection. The section has been established to advance these efforts in a coordinated and institutionalised manner. The new section will facilitate international diplomatic initiatives on climate and environmental issues and coordinate with relevant national bodies.
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said climate diplomacy should not be limited merely to participation in international conferences and events, but should instead be pursued as a long-term, institutional priority.
He said that focusing only on participation in UN climate change conferences or similar events would not strengthen the country’s climate diplomacy capacity.
