KATHMANDU: Nepal will participate in the upcoming 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) with a delegation led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said on Thursday.

Speaking at a meeting of the International Relations and Tourism Committee at Singha Durbar, Khanal said he would accompany the Prime Minister-led delegation to the United States next week.

“The United Nations General Assembly is beginning next week, and a delegation led by the Prime Minister, including myself, will be leaving Nepal to participate in the General Assembly,” Khanal said.

He said Nepal would use the global forum to raise issues related to its national interests, foreign policy priorities, international relations and contemporary global challenges.

The committee meeting also held discussions with experts on climate change and Nepal’s participation in the General Assembly.

Experts highlighted the growing risks Nepal faces due to climate change and discussed issues including climate justice, international cooperation and access to climate finance. They also shared views on how Nepal could effectively present its climate-related concerns at international forums.

Khanal said Nepal’s participation in the General Assembly would provide an important opportunity to present the country’s diplomatic positions and foreign policy priorities on matters of national and international importance.