KATHMANDU: The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) and its President Phur Gelje Sherpa have brought Nepal’s mountaineering vision to the global stage, raising key agendas at the General Assembly of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) held in Peja, Kosovo, from October 23 to 26.

Leading the Nepali delegation, President Sherpa presented two major proposals that received strong encouragement from international delegates. The first called for the establishment of a Mountain Adventure University in Nepal, aimed at promoting research, education, and professional training in adventure and mountain tourism. The second sought the recognition of six additional 8,000-metre peaks within Nepal — a move to highlight the country’s unparalleled high-mountain heritage and strengthen its position as the world’s mountaineering capital.

Sherpa’s active participation and leadership at the assembly were widely appreciated, earning praise from UIAA members for his articulate representation of Nepal’s aspirations and initiatives.

The Kosovo assembly, hosted by the Kosovo Mountaineering and Sport Climbing Federation, brought together 104 representatives from 94 member associations across 73 countries. Discussions focused on enhancing international cooperation, sustainability, and safety in mountaineering and adventure sports.

It was also announced that the UIAA General Assembly 2026 will be hosted in Kathmandu, Nepal, from October 28 to 31, with the NMA serving as the official host organization. Around 120 international delegates are expected to attend the landmark event.

Expressing gratitude to the UIAA leadership and the host federation, President Sherpa said the Kathmandu assembly will serve as a celebration of shared mountain heritage. “Nepal looks forward to welcoming the global climbing community with warmth and mountain spirit,” he said.

Founded in 1932 and headquartered in Berne, Switzerland, the UIAA represents 94 member federations across 73 countries and serves as the international governing body for climbing and mountaineering.