Apr 11, Kathmandu - Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal has said that climate change, disruptions in supply chains and growing inequality have increased the need for collective responsibility in the world.

Speaking at the 9th Indian Ocean Conference that began in Port Louis, Mauritius, he noted that the conflicts in the Middle East have affected the world, including Nepal.

He said that the security of Nepalese working in West Asia is the government's priority.

He also said that the stability of the Indian Ocean is linked to fuel, supplies and livelihoods, and that it is directly related to world peace.

Pointing out the interconnection between mountains and oceans, Minister Khanal said that climate change has increased the risk of melting glaciers and rising sea levels. Nepal has been raising this issue in international forums and has also launched the 'Sagarmatha Dialogue'.

He said that Nepal is ready to be a partner in dialogue, a voice for landlocked countries and a bridge for regional cooperation.