The Mayor of Mendoza City, Ulpiano Suarez, welcomed renowned Nepali mountaineers Tashi Lakpa Sherpa and Nima Rinji Sherpa following their successful ascent of Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in South America.
The meeting, held in the scenic mountain city of Mendoza, focused on strengthening cooperation between the Himalayan and Aconcagua mountain tourism industries, with an emphasis on sustainable development and opportunities for future generations.
Strengthening Global Mountain Tourism Ties
After the meeting, Tashi Lakpa Sherpa said discussions centered on how iconic mountain destinations across continents could collaborate to promote responsible mountaineering and tourism.
“It was great to discuss how the mountain tourism industries of the Himalayas and Aconcagua can grow together for future generations,” Tashi Lakpa said.
Mayor Suarez highlighted Mendoza’s commitment to developing mountain tourism through international cooperation and professional management.
“Mendoza continues to strengthen its international position as a premier mountaineering destination in South America through coordinated work with world leaders in this discipline and the sustained development of mountain tourism,” the mayor stated.
Mendoza Praised as a Model Mountain City
Describing Mendoza as one of South America’s best-managed and most developed mountain cities, Tashi Lakpa noted that Nepal could draw valuable lessons from its tourism planning and infrastructure.
He also revealed that initial discussions were held on establishing a sister-city relationship between Mendoza and mountain cities in Nepal to encourage cultural exchange, tourism collaboration, and knowledge-sharing.
Nima Rinji Highlights Aconcagua Experience
Nima Rinji Sherpa, the world’s youngest climber to summit all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters, praised the high standard of tourism services at Aconcagua Provincial Park. He commended the professionalism of local guides, park staff, and the warm hospitality extended to international climbers.
International Team Reaches Aconcagua Summit
The climbing team successfully reached the summit of Mount Aconcagua on January 28. The expedition included:
- Tashi Lakpa Sherpa (Nepal)
- Nima Rinji Sherpa (Nepal)
- Evelyn Duarte Lara (Mexico)
- Richard William Chambers (United Kingdom)
- Shahad A. M. H. D. Alzaabi (Kuwait)
- Matias Yoel Fabrizio (Argentina)
- Dr. Catalina Giusti (Argentina), Expedition Doctor
The visit underscored growing international collaboration in mountain tourism, positioning Mendoza and Nepal’s Himalayan regions as partners in promoting sustainable mountaineering, cultural exchange, and global adventure tourism.
