Nepal PM Balendra Shah to Raise Bhotekoshi Flood Losses at UNGA 2026

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah is set to use his address at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York to highlight the country’s growing climate-related challenges, including the heavy loss of life and damage caused by the recent Bhotekoshi flash floods.

Shah will travel to the United States from September 22 to 26, marking his first foreign visit since taking office in March. Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai said the Prime Minister will address the UN General Debate on September 24.

The Bhotekoshi disaster is expected to feature prominently in his speech. The flash floods on August 26 followed an ice-rock avalanche near the Nepal-Tibet border and caused widespread destruction across northern and central Nepal. More than 1,300 people were reported dead, while over 5,000 remained missing. Homes, infrastructure and other property also suffered extensive damage.

Nepal is expected to argue that countries with relatively low greenhouse gas emissions are nevertheless facing severe consequences from climate change. Shah will seek greater international attention to the repeated loss of life and property caused by climate-related disasters.

The Prime Minister is also expected to call for climate justice and compensation through the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage and other international mechanisms. Nepal will urge developed and wealthy nations to provide subsidised climate finance as well as technical assistance.

The requested support is expected to focus on building climate-resilient infrastructure, developing climate-smart agriculture and strengthening the capabilities of institutions dealing with climate-related challenges.

The UN General Assembly’s theme this year is “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All.” Shah will lead a high-level Nepali delegation during his visit.

Beyond climate concerns, the UNGA will provide Nepal with an opportunity to discuss the country’s Gen-Z movement of the previous year, the general election, the priorities of the current government and other national issues. Kathmandu also hopes the high-level forum will help maintain international assistance and goodwill.

The 81st UN General Assembly session began on September 8, with leaders of the 193 member states scheduled to participate in the General Debate from September 22 to 28. Shah’s September 24 address is expected to put Nepal’s climate vulnerability, demand for loss-and-damage support and need for concessional climate finance at the centre of its international outreach.