Kathmandu, Nepal: A senior United States diplomat has underscored the need for stronger international cooperation to promote sustainable tourism and ensure safer expedition practices in Nepal’s Himalayan region, one of the world’s most iconic adventure destinations.
Speaking at the Ascent Summit 2026 in Kathmandu on Sunday, US Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Sarah B. Rogers highlighted that Nepal’s tourism sector—especially mountaineering and trekking—requires coordinated global efforts, innovation, and responsible practices to protect both climbers and the fragile mountain environment.
Nepal, home to an almost 800-kilometre stretch of the Himalayan range, includes eight of the world’s 14 highest peaks above 8,000 metres, including Mount Everest (Sagarmatha). The country attracts hundreds of thousands of trekkers, climbers, and adventure tourists every year, making tourism a vital part of its economy and global identity.
Rogers emphasized that the United States and Nepal share strong ties built on entrepreneurship, innovation, and people-to-people connections. She noted that advancing tourism safety now depends on combining leadership, modern technology, and international collaboration to reduce risks faced by climbers in high-altitude expeditions.
She also pointed out that the growing popularity of Himalayan trekking brings both opportunities and challenges, including overcrowding, environmental pressure, and safety risks. According to her remarks, new technological solutions—such as improved weather forecasting systems, digital tracking tools, and rescue coordination mechanisms—can play a key role in improving expedition safety.
The event, organized by the US Embassy in Kathmandu in partnership with Nepal Tourism Board, brought together tourism experts, policymakers, and international stakeholders to discuss the future of Himalayan tourism. Discussions focused on sustainable adventure tourism, climate-related risks, and ways to improve safety standards for climbers and trekkers.
Nepal’s tourism sector has been recovering steadily after previous disruptions, and officials say international engagement like this strengthens confidence in the country as a safe and attractive destination for global travelers.
Rogers’ visit is part of broader US diplomatic engagement in Nepal, reflecting growing cooperation between Kathmandu and Washington in areas including tourism, technology, education, and development.
