KATHMANDU: The Development, Economic Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the National Assembly has directed authorities to begin preparations for the upcoming COP-31 climate conference with a focus on safeguarding Nepal’s national interests through careful negotiations.
Committee Chairman Krishna Prasad Poudel stated that given Nepal’s unique geographical challenges, it is essential to ensure that the country’s interests are effectively represented on the international stage. He noted that the committee has been consistently prioritizing the impacts of climate change and is currently working to establish a solid foundation for effective negotiations at COP-31.
“I feel that we have suffered in the past due to a lack of careful negotiation capacity,” Poudel said. “While the commitment of political leadership is crucial, it is the responsibility of the bureaucracy to manage the procedural and technical aspects.”
The committee is currently consulting with various stakeholders to prepare necessary documentation for the summit. Poudel highlighted that the committee’s secretariat and relevant staff are conducting analytical studies to support the negotiation team. He emphasized that preparation must be based on facts and evidence, noting that analytical materials prepared by the bureaucracy are vital for a strong presentation. The committee plans to hold continuous discussions with stakeholders to ensure Nepal’s position is clearly articulated ahead of the conference.
