Kathmandu, Nepal — May 13, 2025
Nepal is set to host the highly anticipated Sagarmatha Dialogue 2025, a global summit focusing on the impacts of climate change, from May 16 to May 18 in Kathmandu. This international event is poised to bring together approximately 300 high-level delegates from around 50 countries, including foreign ministers, environmental experts, and global leaders.
The summit aims to spotlight the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in mountain ecosystems, and foster international collaboration to address these issues. Nepal’s Sagarmatha Dialogue Secretariat has reported significant interest in the event, with several confirmed participants, signaling global recognition of the importance of this initiative.
High-Level Representation Expected from Neighboring Nations
While Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already confirmed he will not attend, Nepalese officials have assured that India will send high-level representatives, emphasizing India's recognition of the summit's significance. Similarly, Nepal is hoping for top-level representation from China, potentially at the presidential or prime ministerial level.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed interest in attending, although global developments may influence his final decision.
A Packed Three-Day Agenda
Day 1 (May 16):
The summit will commence with an opening ceremony at Hotel Soaltee from 9:30 to 11:00 AM. During this session, high-level delegates will deliver brief remarks, highlighting their nation’s stance on climate action and collaboration. Following the ceremony, the Plenary Session will address the theme, “Climate Change, Mountains, and the Future of Humanity.” This session will allow additional high-level participants and experts to share their insights on the critical challenges facing mountainous regions in the face of climate change.
Later in the day, thematic sessions will delve deeper into the intersections between mountains and oceans. Topics include glacier conservation, linking highland areas with islands, promoting climate-resilient agriculture, and fostering community-led climate adaptation in mountain regions. Each session is designed to facilitate detailed discussions and actionable strategies for these pressing issues.
Day 2 (May 17):
The second day will begin at 9:00 AM with eight interactive sessions under four primary themes. One of the focal points will be exploring clean energy solutions within the green economy framework, with sessions addressing renewable energy’s role in strengthening future resilience. Another set of sessions will examine disaster risk management in mountain regions, emphasizing mitigation strategies and response systems.
In the afternoon, discussions will shift toward sustainable urban and rural development, with sessions focusing on gender and intergenerational equity, leveraging science and technology for mountain resilience, and the development of sustainable mountain economies. The day will conclude with a plenary discussion on fostering global and regional partnerships, bringing together experts from diverse fields to propose collaborative solutions.
Day 3 (May 18):
The final day will feature a unique opportunity for high-level delegates to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas through an aerial tour of Mount Everest. This immersive experience aims to emphasize the importance of conserving mountain ecosystems and inspire participants to advocate for greater global action. Following the tour, the Sagarmatha Dialogue 2025 Declaration will be issued at 10:00 AM, encapsulating the event’s key outcomes and recommendations. The summit will officially conclude with a closing ceremony at 1:00
