Kyrgyzstan promotes global awareness of mountains on ‘International Mountain Day’

Kyrgyzstan, renowned for its stunning landscapes and majestic mountains, played a key role in establishing International Mountain Day to emphasize the critical importance of mountains to the global community.

Celebrated annually on December 11, this day serves as a vital platform for promoting the preservation of mountain ecosystems, emphasizing their value, and addressing the challenges faced by mountain communities worldwide.

Mountains: Anchors of Our Planet

Mountains provide over 60% of the Earth’s freshwater resources and play a crucial role in maintaining climate stability. They are rich hubs of biodiversity, supporting millions of people worldwide and contributing significantly to key economic sectors such as tourism and agriculture. These natural treasures are essential not only for the well-being of mountain communities but also for the overall health of the planet.
Kyrgyzstan’s Special Mission

Situated in the heart of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country, with 94% of its land covered by peaks, including the majestic Khan-Tengri, one of the highest in the world. Preserving this unique ecosystem is a top priority for Kyrgyzstan, which aims to share its natural wealth and insights on sustainable development with the global community.

Through International Mountain Day, Kyrgyzstan seeks to encourage global discussions on climate change, the challenges of living in mountainous regions, and sustainable development. The country is also leading efforts to promote mountain tourism and enhance environmental protections.

A Shared Global Responsibility

Speaking at the 29th Conference of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP-29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, on November 12, 2024, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov stressed that protecting mountains is not solely the duty of mountainous nations but a shared responsibility for all.

Economically developed countries are already contributing to the protection of mountain ecosystems and combating poverty in mountainous regions. International Mountain Day serves as a reminder of the crucial role mountains play in shaping the future of our planet and the importance of uniting efforts for their preservation.

Kyrgyzstan’s Contributions to International Mountain Day

Kyrgyzstan has long been at the forefront of global mountain advocacy. Key milestones include:

1. Year 2002: Declared the International Year of Mountains.
2. Year 2002: Hosted the first Bishkek Global Mountain Summit.
3. January 30, 2003: Proposed the establishment of International Mountain Day during the 57th session of the UN General Assembly, securing December 11 as its official date.
4. August 29, 2019: Launched the “Friendship of Mountain Countries” initiative, bringing together 27 nations, including Kyrgyzstan, Austria, Nepal, Switzerland, and Japan.
5. Year 2022: Successfully advocated for the adoption of a UN resolution declaring 2022 as the International Year of Sustainable Mountain Development.
6. Year 2023–2027: Led efforts to adopt the “Five-Year Plan for the Development of Mountain Regions,” co-sponsored by 109 UN member states.
7. July 2024: During a visit by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Kyrgyzstan named one of its peaks “United Nations Peak” in honor of international cooperation.
8. Year 2027: Plans to host the second Global Mountain Summit, “Bishkek+25,” were announced by H. E. President Japarov during the 78th and 79th sessions of the UN General Assembly.

The International Mountain Day reflects Kyrgyzstan’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding mountain ecosystems and raising global awareness about their significance. By uniting the efforts of nations, Kyrgyzstan actively contributes to the protection of these vital natural resources, ensuring their preservation for future generations.