FM Dr. Rana stresses greater connectivity, cooperation among Global South nations

Kathmandu, Feb. 15

Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba has emphasised the need for greater connectivity and cooperation among Global South nations, as they represent the majority of humanity.

Speaking at the 8^th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat, Oman, on Sunday, she said that maritime partnerships are important for landlocked nations like Nepal. She noted that such collaborations could enhance connectivity and contribute to inclusive and sustainable development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said in a statement on Sunday.

In a session focused on amplifying the voice of the Global South, Minister Dr. Rana stressed that without the advancement of the Indian Ocean region, the achievements of the developed world could also be at risk.

“The roadmap for the future is clear. The world agrees on the way forward for humanity, and strategies have already been identified. The Global South represents the majority of the world’s population, and we will leave no one behind,” said  Dr. Rana. She called for collective action and commitment to achieving the shared goals.

To unlock the full potential of the Global South, she suggested reviewing South-South cooperation policies, strengthening regional integration and promoting mutual collaboration.

According to the MoFA, Minister Dr. Rana also underscored the need for equal access to financial resources and reforms in global governance and financial institutions to ensure the Global South is adequately represented. She called for joint advocacy to ensure developed countries meet their commitments.

She highlighted the importance of enhancing regional connectivity through land, air and sea networks and facilitating knowledge, skills and technology transfers to strengthen capacity-building efforts.

"Addressing global challenges such as inequality, poverty, rising debt crises, conflicts, digital divides and climate change, she emphasised the urgency of regional cooperation and South-South collaboration to address these pressing issues," read the statement.

According to her, least developed, landlocked and small island nations face resource constraints, necessitating stronger collective efforts to build a resilient future.

Referencing the UN Summit of the Future held in September, Minister Deuba reiterated the recognition of South-South and triangular cooperation as effective strategies for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She expressed hope that international forums would provide much-needed strategic direction and synergy in utilising the abundant natural and human resources within the Global South.

She also informed the participating delegations about Sagarmatha Dialogue, a global forum for discussing critical regional and global issues, set to be held in Kathmandu in May this year.

The first edition of this dialogue will focus on climate change, mountains, and the future of humanity, bringing together scientists, policymakers, mountaineers and world leaders to foster discussions and commitments.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 16 February 2025.