Kathmandu, December 11, 2024 – The Fifteenth South Asia Economic Summit (SAES XV), with the theme “Unleashing an Equitable Green Transformation in South Asia”, commenced today in Kathmandu. The summit, running from December 11 to 13, aims to chart a path for sustainable economic growth in the region amidst escalating climate challenges.
The inaugural session featured distinguished speakers, including Dr. Ratnakar Adhikari, Chairman of South Asia Watch on Trade, Economics and Environment (SAWTEE), Nepal, who delivered the welcome and introductory address. Virtual remarks were made by Ms. Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser at the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Interim Government of Bangladesh. Additional contributions came from H.E. Ms. Veronique Lorenzo, Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to Nepal, and H.E. Ms. Hanaa Singer-Hamdy, UN Resident Coordinator in Nepal.
Hon’ble Mr. Damodar Bhandari, Nepal's Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies, delivered the inaugural address, emphasizing the critical need for regional cooperation to build green value chains and promote sustainable practices across South Asia.
The opening plenary, moderated by Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya of Bangladesh's Centre for Policy Dialogue, set the tone with the theme “Developing Green Value Chains in South Asia: An Agenda for Cooperation.” A keynote speech by Prof. Dr. Rehman Sobhan, Chairman of CPD Bangladesh, further underlined the need for collaborative approaches.
The evening concluded with a vibrant musical gala and welcome dinner, fostering informal networking among policymakers, academics, and sustainability advocates.
Tomorrow’s sessions promise to delve into critical topics, including trade and industrial policies in the era of climate action.
Stay tuned to Ecosphere News for comprehensive coverage of the summit.
