Prime Minister Balendra Shah, also known as ‘Balen,’ addressed the United Nations General Assembly, highlighting the devastating impact of the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods, greenhouse gas emissions, and issues related to climate justice. Speaking at the UN headquarters in New York on Thursday local time, he described the catastrophic flooding in Bhotekoshi-Trishuli not only as a local tragedy but also as a warning to the entire world. “Did we truly heed that warning?” questioned Prime Minister Shah.
Recalling that nearly three years ago the UN Secretary-General issued a climate crisis warning from Nepal, Shah expressed disappointment that global leaders have not taken the matter seriously. Reflecting on the devastating floods Nepal faced last month, he thanked the international community for their support. Regarding greenhouse gas emissions, he noted, “Nepal’s greenhouse gas emissions are minimal on a global scale, yet Pakistan has been suffering heavily from the effects of climate change.”
Prime Minister Shah emphasized that the countries most affected by climate change cannot cope with its consequences through small-scale aid or loans alone and called for adequate grants and support. “We seek grant-based assistance. Financial mechanisms like the Loss and Damage Fund and the Global Environment Facility remain insufficient,” he stated.
In light of the climate crisis, he proposed the establishment of a joint mechanism under the leadership of Nepal, India, and China. “Through this mechanism, we can share satellite data and technical expertise and conduct joint monitoring of high-risk glacial lakes,” he suggested. Shah also mentioned his plan to return home on October 10.
