Nepal Prime Minister Balendra “Balen” Shah is set to address the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 24. His speech comes at a crucial time for Nepal after a devastating flood disaster.
The August 26 Bhotekoshi disaster killed more than 1,400 people and left thousands missing, according to the latest figures reported by Nepali authorities. The disaster also caused major damage to homes, roads, bridges, hydropower projects and other infrastructure.
For Shah, the UN visit is also his first foreign trip since he became prime minister in March. He is expected to use the global platform to seek support for Nepal’s recovery and raise the issue of climate change.
Balen Shah Takes Nepal’s Flood Crisis to the UN
Shah’s UNGA speech comes as Nepal seeks international help for reconstruction. The government has estimated that the country could need billions of dollars to rebuild after the disaster.
Nepal is also presenting the floods as a climate justice issue. The argument is that countries such as Nepal contribute relatively little to global emissions but face serious damage from climate-related disasters. Officials are seeking more funding, technology and support from wealthier countries and international agencies.
Why the Flood Disaster Matters
The disaster began after an ice and rock avalanche in the Himalayan region triggered a massive flood on August 26. The flood swept through river valleys and damaged several key infrastructure projects.
More than a dozen hydropower projects, roads, bridges and trade routes were affected, according to Reuters. Search teams also spent weeks looking for people believed to be trapped inside hydropower tunnels. The scale of the destruction has increased pressure on the government to speed up rescue, relief and rebuilding work. It has also pushed climate change higher on Nepal’s international agenda.
Nepal Seeks Climate Finance and Support
Nepal wants the international community to provide more than emergency aid. Its government is seeking financial support for reconstruction and long-term climate resilience.
Prime Minister Shah is expected to argue that climate-vulnerable countries need greater access to climate finance. Nepal also wants international support for loss and damage linked to climate-related disasters. Reuters reported earlier this month that Nepal was preparing to seek support for an initial reconstruction requirement of about $5 billion. The funds would cover areas such as temporary shelters, schools and essential infrastructure.
First Foreign Trip Since Becoming Prime Minister
The UN visit is an important international appearance for Shah. He became Nepal’s prime minister on March 27 and had not made a foreign trip before this visit.
He arrived in New York with a Nepali delegation for the 81st UN General Assembly. His speech gives him a chance to present Nepal’s concerns directly to world leaders and international organisations.
The focus will be on Nepal’s flood recovery, climate risks and the need for international support. For a country still dealing with the disaster’s aftermath, the UN platform comes at a critical moment.
