New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters visited Khumjung in Solukhumbu to take part in the 72nd Everest Day celebration.
He traveled to the village near Everest to honor the day when New Zealand’s Edmund Hillary and Nepal’s Tenzing Norgay Sherpa became the first people to reach the summit of the world’s highest mountain.
USD 1.8 Million Pledged for Education and Health
During the program held on May 29—considered a key date in Nepal’s tourism history—Peters pledged USD 1.8 million (around NPR 240 million) over the next five years to support health and education in the Khumbu region.
Speaking at Khumjung Secondary School, he highlighted the deep ties between New Zealand and Nepal’s mountain communities. He recalled how the successful Everest climb brought lasting recognition to both nations.
Peters explained that, because of the connection formed on Everest, the Himalayan Trust has been actively supporting health and education in Solukhumbu. He said this partnership will continue in the years ahead.
Local Leaders Thank New Zealand for Longstanding Support
During the event, Mingma Sherpa, Chairperson of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, and local residents welcomed Peters.
They thanked the New Zealand government for its consistent support in education. They said this help has improved the quality of learning and contributed to building skilled human resources in the region.
