Alex Baker, a UK Labour MP, raised concerns about Nepal’s climate change challenges in Parliament, referencing devastating floods that resulted in over 200 deaths. Foreign Secretary David Lammy affirmed the UK’s commitment to aid Nepal with £38.5 million for resilience programs and an additional £58 million for climate-smart development. This discussion followed Baker’s visit to the Nepalese Embassy, where she engaged with senior officials on related issues.
The urgent climate change challenges faced by Nepal were prominently discussed in the UK Parliament, led by Labour Member of Parliament Alex Baker. Representing constituencies with substantial Nepali communities, Baker emphasized the dire situation resulting from severe flooding in the country, particularly in Kathmandu, which led to over 200 fatalities last year. She questioned the British government regarding its commitment to assist Nepal in addressing these pressing issues.
In response to Baker’s inquiries, Foreign Secretary David Lammy reiterated the UK’s dedication to supporting Nepal. He disclosed that the UK government had allocated £38.5 million (around Rs 6.5 billion) to aid Nepal in combating climate change and fostering resilience. Furthermore, Lammy announced a forthcoming aid package of £58 million (approximately Rs 10 billion) over the next eight years to enhance climate-related development initiatives.
The exchange in Parliament followed Baker’s recent visit to the Nepalese Embassy in London, where she met with notable figures including senior Nepali Congress leader Shekhar Koirala and Acting Ambassador Bipin Duwadi. During this meeting, embassy officials sought Baker’s assistance in advocating for climate change issues and addressing the concerns of former Gurkha soldiers in Parliament.
Nepal is one of the countries most severely impacted by climate change, facing significant natural disasters such as floods and landslides that threaten lives and livelihoods. The UK has a historical relationship with Nepal, providing developmental aid and support in various sectors, particularly in relation to climate resilience. The discussions in Parliament highlight the importance of continued collaboration between the two nations in combating these pressing environmental challenges.
The recent discourse in the UK Parliament underscores the gravity of climate change in Nepal and the UK’s commitment to partnering with the nation to enhance its resilience. Through targeted financial support and development initiatives, the UK seeks to address the alarming effects of climate change. This dialogue not only emphasizes the necessity of international cooperation but also reflects the growing recognition of climate issues facing developing nations.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
