China Envoy Stresses Joint Action on Himalayan Climate Risks

Kathmandu. Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Zhang Mao Ming has stated that Nepal and China need to work together to face the increasing climate-related risks and natural disasters in the Himalayan region. Speaking at the Kashmandap dialogue held in Kathmandu on Saturday, Ambassador Zhang mentioned that since Nepal and China are connected by the same Himalayan ecosystem, both countries have to face the impact of floods, landslides, and other natural disasters in the Himalayan region. Emphasizing that risks arising from climate change are not limited within the borders of any country, he stressed the need for regional and cross-border cooperation in disaster management. Quoting Chinese President Xi Jinping, he said, 'No country can remain completely safe from environmental risks. Climate change cannot be faced by any country alone.' Ambassador Zhang stated that to reduce the risk of Himalayan disasters, Nepal and China need to make the water and weather-related monitoring system more effective. He said that developing early warning systems for disasters, using advanced technology, and prioritizing joint emergency rescue exercises should be focused on. He clarified that the cooperation between the two countries is important, as shown by the assistance China provided to Nepal during disasters. He informed that after the flood and landslide on August 26, China provided Nepal with US$2.4 million in cash assistance. He also mentioned that relief materials including drones, Bailey bridges, DNA testing equipment, and rescue boats were handed over. He further informed that 24 experts specializing in tunnel rescue, DNA identification, and forensic identification for disaster management were also sent to Nepal. He stated that since the risks arising from climate change in the Himalayan region could become more serious in the coming days, preparedness, information exchange, and rescue capabilities need to be strengthened. He emphasized that Nepal and China should take Himalayan disasters as a common challenge and expand cooperation in green development, clean energy, environmental protection, and building disaster-resilient infrastructure.