US Embassy Public Affairs Chief Mike Harker Successfully Climbs Mount Everest

Kathmandu. Nepal-based US Embassy Public Affairs Chief Mike Harker has successfully climbed Mount Everest. The US Embassy in Nepal stated that she successfully climbed Mount Everest on May 19 at 9:10 AM. With this, she has become the first incumbent US diplomat to set foot on the summit of Mount Everest. This climb took place on the eve of the 250th anniversary of America's independence 'Freedom 250', which is said to have highlighted the courage and determination of American citizens. US official Harker made this climb entirely on her own capabilities and efforts. The embassy stated that this success is the result of a relentless journey of 20 years. She first came to Nepal in 2006 during a trek to Annapurna Base Camp. This successful climb is said to have further elevated the friendly relations between Nepal and America. Official Harker said that it is very important to protect Mount Everest, the world's most precious natural heritage, and that it will continue to inspire future generations of adventurers. Earlier, on May 1, US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia and Ambassador to India, Sergio Gore, tested an American drone named Ultra X Gen-2 at Everest Base Camp. Twenty days after that, the embassy's Public Affairs Harker successfully climbed Mount Everest. The testing of that cargo drone has also been controversial. The Ministry of Home Affairs source stated that the Nepali government did not grant permission to fly it after China objected to it. Although the US Embassy had sought permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs for the drone test on May 1, the source stated that permission was not granted to fly the drone, keeping in mind the sensitivities of the two countries (America-China).