London, March 15 – Nepal’s Minister of Forests and Environment, Ain Bahadur Shahi, has highlighted Nepal’s increasing vulnerability due to climate change, urging continued financial support from the UK government.

Speaking at an interactive event hosted by the Nepalese Embassy in London on Friday evening, Minister Shahi emphasized that global climate challenges are significantly impacting Nepal.

“Nepal’s mountains are melting due to climate change, affecting agriculture, tourism, and daily life. The country is in a very difficult situation,” he said.

Minister Shahi expressed confidence that the UK government would continue its financial assistance to Nepal. He attended a high-level ministerial program on water security, climate, nature, and development, where he underscored Nepal’s efforts toward sustainable progress under the joint government of the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML.

Acknowledging the contributions of Nepalese living abroad, he stated that Nepal’s new ordinance has removed legal hurdles, making foreign investment easier.

Minister Shahi also reaffirmed the strong historical ties between Nepal and the UK, particularly through the Gurkha soldiers. He expressed optimism that this relationship would deepen in the future.

The event saw the presence of Nepal’s Deputy Chief of Mission Bipin Duwadi, Nepalese community representatives, and Nepalese Ambassador to the UK, Chandrakumar Ghimire. Ambassador Ghimire described Minister Shahi’s visit as productive and emphasized the historical and strategic importance of Nepal-UK relations.

Duwadi credited the Gurkhas for strengthening ties between the two countries through their bravery and sacrifices.

On Thursday evening, Minister Shahi participated in the Water and Climate Reception at Buckingham Palace, hosted by King Charles III, where he discussed Nepal’s climate challenges and the need for global cooperation.