Prince Edward Engages with Nepalese President on Climate Challenges and Bilateral Relations
Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, met with President Ramchandra Paudel of Nepal to discuss climate change and bilateral relations. They emphasized addressing climate challenges, advocating for mountain conservation, and empowering youth and women. The meeting also recognized the historical ties through British Gurkha soldiers, strengthening the bond between Nepal and the UK.
On February 4, Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, met with Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel in Kathmandu to discuss various pressing issues, including climate change. Accompanied by his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward arrived in Nepal after completing a visit to India. During their meeting at Sheetal Niwas, President Paudel emphasized the necessity for collective action to combat climate change, recognizing the severe vulnerabilities Nepal faces due to its geographic positioning and ecological challenges.
President Paudel reaffirmed Nepal’s commitment to advocating for mountain conservation at international forums, stressing the significance of collaborative initiatives in addressing climate-related challenges. He acknowledged the longstanding relationships cultivated through the visits of British royal family members, which have strengthened the bilateral ties between Nepal and the United Kingdom.
The Duke expressed keen interest in understanding the specific climate challenges faced by Nepal and the initiatives being implemented to mitigate these issues. He highlighted the importance of empowering youth and women as pivotal aspects of future cooperation between Nepal and the UK, noting the historical significance of the British Gurkha soldiers in fostering a cordial relationship between the two nations.
During the engagement, Major General Gerald Strickland, Colonel Commandant of the Brigade of Gurkhas, presented the annual report for 2024 to President Paudel. The President expressed appreciation for the report, emphasizing the British-Gurkha connection as a vital element in the relationship between Nepal and the UK, which has significantly enhanced people-to-people relations.
The meeting between Prince Edward and President Paudel occurs against the backdrop of global concerns about climate change, particularly affecting vulnerable regions like Nepal. Both leaders acknowledged the bilateral relationship’s historical context, especially regarding the British Gurkha legacy and the continuous efforts towards climate advocacy and sustainable development. Their discussion underlines a mutual commitment to enhancing cooperative frameworks between Nepal and the UK.
The discussion between Prince Edward and President Paudel highlights the essential need for collaborative efforts to address climate change, particularly in regions like Nepal. The engagement not only focused on environmental issues but also underscored the importance of youth and women’s empowerment in strengthening bilateral relations. The legacy of the Gurkhas continues to play a pivotal role in fostering goodwill between the two nations.
Original Source: www.newsdrum.in
