Labour MP Alex Baker raised concerns in the UK Parliament regarding Nepal’s climate change challenges, particularly following severe floods in which over 200 people died. Foreign Secretary David Lammy responded by stating the UK government’s commitment to assist Nepal with £38.5 million for climate adaptation and announced an additional £58 million aid package over the next eight years. This follows Baker’s engagement with Nepalese officials, highlighting ongoing collaboration between the two nations.
The issue of climate change in Nepal was addressed in the UK Parliament as Labour MP Alex Baker raised pertinent concerns regarding the country’s significant struggles with this crisis. Representing areas with prominent Nepali communities, such as Aldershot and Farnborough, she emphasized the severe floods that resulted in over 200 fatalities in Kathmandu last year and questioned the UK government’s support for Nepal in combating these climate challenges.
During the session, Foreign Secretary David Lammy assured the Parliament of the UK government’s ongoing commitment to aid Nepal. He announced that the UK had allocated £38.5 million (approximately Rs. 6.5 billion) to assist in climate change impact mitigation and resilience initiatives. Lammy further detailed a forthcoming aid package of £58 million (approximately Rs. 10 billion) spread across eight years for additional climate-smart development projects.
This parliamentary discussion coincided with Alex Baker’s visit to the Nepalese Embassy, where she engaged with key figures such as Shekhar Koirala, a leader of the Nepali Congress, and Acting Ambassador Bipin Duwadi. During her meeting, Baker was urged to advocate for pressing issues in Parliament, particularly those concerning climate change and the rights of former Gurkha soldiers.
Nepal is experiencing severe impacts due to climate change, including devastating floods that have resulted in loss of life and property. In this context, Nepal has been seeking international support, particularly from long-standing partners such as the United Kingdom, which has a history of bilateral assistance. The UK government has been involved in various development initiatives aimed at helping Nepal cope with these challenges, ensuring that both parties maintain strong diplomatic ties.
The discussion in the UK Parliament underscores the urgent need for international assistance to address the climate crisis in Nepal. With significant funds allocated and future aid planned, the UK government is reaffirming its commitment to supporting Nepal’s resilience against climate change. As representatives like Alex Baker continue to advocate for crucial issues, the partnership between Nepal and the UK remains vital in tackling these environmental challenges.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
