The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and its President Phur Gelje Sherpa have successfully brought Nepal’s mountaineering ambitions to the international forefront by representing the nation at the General Assembly of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) held in Peja, Kosovo, from October 23 to 26.
Nepal’s Key Proposals Gain International Support
Leading the Nepali delegation, President Sherpa presented two major proposals that drew widespread encouragement from global mountaineering representatives. The first proposal emphasized the establishment of a Mountain Adventure University in Nepal, envisioned as a center for research, education, and professional training in adventure and mountain tourism.
The second proposal advocated for the recognition of six additional 8,000-metre peaks within Nepal, underscoring the country’s unmatched high-altitude geography and reaffirming its stature as the world’s ultimate mountaineering destination.
Sherpa’s presentation and active engagement were highly appreciated by international delegates, who praised his articulate advocacy of Nepal’s vision to strengthen global cooperation in sustainable and safe mountaineering practices.
Global Gathering of Mountaineering Leaders
The UIAA General Assembly in Kosovo was hosted by the Kosovo Mountaineering and Sport Climbing Federation, bringing together 104 representatives from 94 member associations across 73 countries. The conference focused on fostering international collaboration, environmental sustainability, and safety standards in climbing and adventure sports.
During the event, participants shared innovative ideas to enhance the global mountain tourism ecosystem, exchange best practices, and address challenges faced by mountaineers worldwide.
Nepal to Host UIAA General Assembly 2026 in Kathmandu
A major highlight of the assembly was the announcement that Nepal will host the UIAA General Assembly 2026 in Kathmandu from October 28 to 31, with the NMA serving as the official host organization. The upcoming event is expected to attract around 120 international delegates, marking a significant milestone in Nepal’s global mountaineering leadership.
Expressing his gratitude, President Sherpa said that hosting the assembly in Nepal will be a historic opportunity to celebrate the shared mountain heritage of the global climbing community. “Nepal looks forward to welcoming mountaineers from around the world with our warmth and mountain spirit,” Sherpa stated.
About the UIAA
Established in 1932 and headquartered in Berne, Switzerland, the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) represents 94 national federations across 73 countries. It serves as the global governing body for climbing and mountaineering, promoting responsible, safe, and sustainable mountain sports worldwide.
Through NMA’s strong leadership and participation, Nepal continues to solidify its identity as the heart of world mountaineering, where innovation, adventure, and cultural pride converge to inspire the next generation of climbers and explorers.
