I delivered today an opening statement at the 21st session of the United Nations Forum on Forests, emphasizing that forests are home to most of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity, and they remain among our most effective natural allies in addressing climate change.
In my remarks, I highlighted how sustainably managed forests support livelihoods, protect watersheds, preserve biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, and contribute directly to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Drawing from Nepal’s own experience with community forest management, I stressed that “when forests thrive, communities prosper, biodiversity rebounds, and the climate breathes easier.”
At a time of growing climate and development challenges, we must strengthen implementation, align policies and investments, and support countries most vulnerable to deforestation and climate impacts. As I noted, “sustainable forest management is not only an environmental agenda - it is a development imperative, a climate necessity, and a moral responsibility.” 🔗 ecosoc.un.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/...
#UNFF21 #UNForests #GlobalForestsGoals #ClimateAction