Minister Shisir Khanal returns from COP31 in Antalya

Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal returned home on Saturday following his leadership of the delegation at the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The gathering took place in Antalya, Türkiye, drawing international attention to environmental concerns. Throughout the summit, the delegation emphasized critical themes including the 1.5-degree Celsius target, protection of Himalayan ecosystems, and the pursuit of climate justice. Discussions also covered financial assistance for adaptation, loss and damage mitigation, robust multi-hazard early warning networks, and global backing for post-disaster reconstruction and recovery initiatives. On 9 November, Khanal spoke at the opening plenary session, focusing global attention on how recent climate-driven disasters have affected lives, livelihoods, infrastructure, and ecosystems. Later in the programme on 13 November, the minister participated in a session concerning access to climate finance designated for Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States.