The **Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Parliamentarians’ Meet 2025** kicked off today in **Kathmandu**. This two-day event gathers lawmakers, climate experts, and environmental advocates from across the HKH region. The goal? To spark discussion and teamwork on pressing environmental issues affecting countries like **Nepal, India, China, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar**, and **Pakistan**. Notably, **Afghanistan** is absent due to ongoing political tensions.
This region is incredibly vulnerable to **climate change**. It faces rapid glacial melting, biodiversity loss, and increasing risks from natural disasters. The meeting aims to foster regional collaboration and develop policy frameworks to tackle these challenges together. **Pema Gyamtsho**, Director General of the **International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)**, noted that “regional cooperation is vital for building climate resilience.”
About **30 participants**, including parliamentary leaders and climate specialists, are attending. Countries share not only geography but also common environmental crises that demand coordinated action. With significant water and energy resources sourced from these mountains, protecting their ecosystems is crucial for millions.
One major topic on the agenda is **climate change**, specifically its effect on glacial melt. The HKH region is often called the **“third pole”** because of its large glaciers, which are crucial for water supply. As temperatures rise, more frequent natural disasters such as floods and droughts threaten lives and livelihoods.
Biodiversity loss is another key issue. The HKH is home to many unique species, yet deforestation and climate change put immense pressure on these ecosystems. Experts warn that if not addressed, this could lead to extinction for several species.
The dialogue at this meet isn’t just about problems; it’s about solutions. Lawmakers will engage in discussions focused on creating practical environmental policies. By working together, countries can better manage shared resources, ultimately leading to better environmental protection and **sustainable tourism** practices. This is crucial as tourism is a significant part of the local economy but can harm fragile ecosystems if not managed responsibly.
Interestingly, public sentiment around this meet is growing. Social media buzz shows concerns over climate action. Many users emphasize the urgency for policy changes and highlight the role of youth in advocating for a sustainable future. A recent survey indicated that **75%** of young people in the region feel their governments need to take stronger action on environmental issues.
The role of **ICIMOD** is also pivotal. This organization provides crucial research supporting the conference, ensuring discussions are based on solid data. By uniting experts and local communities, ICIMOD helps devise strategies that can lead to real change.
Ultimately, the **Hindu Kush Himalaya Parliamentarians’ Meet 2025** represents an essential step in fostering a collaborative approach to environmental stewardship. As climate challenges mount, the need for cohesive action among nations grows stronger. By sharing knowledge and resources, these countries can innovate and implement effective policies that not only protect the environment but also enhance sustainable development efforts.
Source link
climate change himalayas,environmental challenges hkh,hindu kush himalaya meet 2025,hkh region biodiversity,kathmandu regional conference,meeting and event industry news,nepal travel news
