Sarah B. Rogers, Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy of the United States, delivered the keynote address at the Ascent Summit 2026, held in Kathmandu on May 31. The high-profile summit gathered global leaders from mountaineering, tourism, innovation, and outdoor industries to discuss the future of Himalayan expeditions and sustainable adventure tourism.
Sarah B. Rogers was joined by prominent figures including Sumnima Udas, Chair of the International Relations and Tourism Committee, legendary mountaineer Conrad Anker, expedition leaders, innovators, rescue professionals, outdoor brands, journalists, and tourism stakeholders from Nepal and abroad.
Strengthening Nepal–U.S. Cooperation Through Innovation and Tourism
In her remarks, Under Secretary Sarah B. Rogers emphasized the longstanding partnership between the United States and Nepal, highlighting how shared interests in adventure tourism, entrepreneurship, and innovation are creating new economic opportunities for both countries.
Sarah B. Rogers noted that increasing collaboration between American companies and Nepali tourism stakeholders can help modernize the sector while supporting local livelihoods. Rogers also underscored the importance of technology, leadership, and international cooperation in making Himalayan expeditions safer and more sustainable.
Focus on Safety, Technology, and Himalayan Expedition Standards
A key theme of her address was improving safety standards in high-altitude mountaineering. Sarah B. Rogers stressed that innovation in equipment, communication systems, and rescue operations can significantly reduce risks faced by climbers in the Himalayas.
Sarah B. Rogers highlighted that combining American technological innovation with Nepal’s world-renowned mountaineering expertise can strengthen expedition safety and enhance the global reputation of Nepal’s adventure tourism sector.
Ascent Summit 2026 Brings Together Global Mountain Community
The event was organized by the U.S. Embassy Nepal in partnership with the Nepal Tourism Board and Seven Summit Treks. The summit brought together more than 1,400 participants, including climbers, expedition leaders, innovators, outdoor brands, community representatives, artists, and tourism professionals. Discussions focused on the future of Everest-region tourism, innovation in expedition logistics, and sustainable development of mountain economies.
Participants also explored how Nepal’s mountaineering heritage and U.S. innovation ecosystems can work together to improve safety, expand tourism opportunities, and promote responsible exploration of the Himalayas.
High-Level Meetings and Continued Engagement in Nepal
During her visit, Under Secretary Rogers is scheduled to meet senior government officials, representatives of the American Chamber of Commerce, and alumni of U.S. government exchange and education programs. Her engagements are expected to further strengthen diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
Reaffirming Longstanding Bilateral Partnership
The visit and participation at Ascent Summit 2026 reaffirm the United States’ commitment to deepening its partnership with Nepal through expanded cooperation in tourism, innovation, education, and sustainable economic development.
