Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari on Friday highlighted the enduring appeal of “Sagarmatha” and the majestic mountains of Nepal among Bangladeshi people.
He commended mountaineers, trekkers, and adventure lovers for their contributions to strengthening the people-to-people ties between the two countries. Emphasizing the vulnerabilities of mountain ecosystems to the adverse impacts of climate change, the Ambassador stressed the need to place the mountain agenda at the forefront of global climate negotiations.
The Embassy hosted a special programme titled ‘Stories from the Summit: Mountains through the Bangladesh Eyes’ in the evening to commemorate the 72nd International Sagarmatha (Mount Everest) Day.
The event brought together mountaineers, trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, and nature photographers, celebrating Bangladesh’s connection with mountains. Environment, Forests, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan appreciated the courage and determination of Bangladeshi mountaineers in scaling some of the world’s most challenging peaks, including Mt. Everest.
She underscored the importance of preserving mountain and river ecosystems in the face of accelerating climate change and called for concerted efforts to protect the Himalayas, not only for their natural appeal and rich biodiversity but also for the well-being of millions of people living in both mountain and downstream regions.
The programme featured an experience-sharing panel of Bangladeshi Everest summiteers — MA Mohit, Nishat Mazumder, Mohad Babar Ali, and Ikramul Hasan Shakil — who shared their inspiring stories of courage, resilience, and profound connection with the mountains.
The panel was moderated by nature enthusiast and author Enam Ul-Haque.
Ambassador Bhandari and adviser Rizwana Hasan lauded Ikramul Hasan Shakil for his successful ascent of Mt. Everest on 19 May 2025, after an incredible 1300 KM ‘sea to summit’ journey on foot, from Cox’s Bazar to the summit of the world’s highest peak.
Likewise, the members of the first all-women expedition team of Bangladesh — Nishat Mazumder, Yasmin Lisa, Arpita Debnath, Mousumi Aktar Ap, and Tahura Sultana Rekha — were also honoured for scaling three peaks in Nepal’s Langtang region in December 2024.
During an interactive session, mountaineers and trekkers shared stories of their unforgettable journeys across the Himalayas and the trekking routes of Nepal.