B[How does China view the glacier retreat crisis affecting the Himalayas? Ministry of Foreign Affairs Response] September 2, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Guo Jiakun hosted a regular press conference on September 2. The Indian newspaper asked a reporter to ask a question. According to reports, the high-altitude Himalayan region is warming significantly faster than the global average. Research shows that since 1981, the number of snow-covered days in Tibet has continued to decrease, and the Tibetan Plateau has lost about 18% of its glaciers due to climate change. In view of the recent glacier collapse in Nepal, how does China view the glacier retreat crisis affecting the Himalayan region? Some people have called on China to jointly establish a Himalayan Commission with its neighboring countries to strengthen cooperation in responding to disasters affecting this fragile region. What is China’s response?
Guo Jiakun said that China has previously responded to relevant issues. According to the assessment of experts from China and Nepal, this disaster was caused by glacier instability under the long-term effects of climate warming. It was caused by an ice and rock avalanche in a glacier in Nepal that rapidly fell and washed away the mountain. A press conference held by the Tibet Autonomous Region also introduced the relevant situation.
He pointed out that in fact, China and Nepal have always maintained good cooperation in the fields of meteorology, water conservancy, disaster prevention and reduction. After the disaster, China also shared important information such as images of the disaster area, satellite and hydrological data with Nigeria, including early warning information on the upstream barrier lakes. We will continue to vigorously support Nigeria in disaster relief and strengthen cooperation in disaster prevention and reduction.
Guo Jiakun said that climate change is a common challenge facing all mankind, and no country can be immune to it. China will continue to work with the international community to strengthen exchanges and cooperation to effectively prevent and reduce the adverse effects of climate change. Regarding the specific issues you mentioned, please refer to the competent authorities. (Beijing Daily)
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