Kathmandu . The Fire Safety and Electronic Security International Conference 2025 officially kicked off today in Kathmandu, aiming to promote the latest technologies related to fire risk reduction and electrical safety. Organized by the Asia Pacific Security Association (APSA) Nepal, the two-day international conference is being held at Hotel Yak and Yeti in Durbarmarg.
The event was inaugurated by Minister for Forests and Environment, Aain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri. In his keynote address Minister Thakuri emphasized the critical need for advanced equipment and skilled manpower in managing and controlling forest fires in Nepal. He highlighted that aside from fire engines, the government currently lacks alternative resources for effective wildfire control and stressed that the government is actively considering multiple approaches to address the issue.
“Due to Nepal’s complex topography, it is not possible for the government alone to control forest fires. Collective effort and coordination among all stakeholders are essential,” the Minister stated. He reiterated that the Ministry of Forests and Environment considers wildfires a major disaster and is working with various agencies to mitigate the risks. He also acknowledged the importance of community participation, civil society, and youth engagement in wildfire management.
APSA Nepal President Sunil Kumar Shrestha, speaking at the event, expressed the organization’s commitment to working with the government on fire safety issues in the future. He assured that the key recommendations and suggestions from the conference would be formally submitted to the relevant government bodies and that APSA Nepal would collaborate with them to implement actionable outcomes.
Shrestha underscored that fire safety is not just a technical concern but a matter directly tied to saving lives, preparedness, and a broader safety system. He called for stronger collaboration among the government, private sector, and other stakeholders. He also noted APSA Nepal’s active role in raising public awareness, building institutional capacity, and contributing to policy reform.
The conference has attracted participation from key agencies including the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Urban Development, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, Nepali Army, representatives from all 753 local governments, and leading figures from the industrial sector. Experts and delegates from 14 countries—such as China, India, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, and the Philippines—will present their research papers during the sessions.
The program includes various technical sessions, interactive discussions, and technology exhibitions, offering participants valuable insights into global practices, innovations, and experiences in fire safety and electronic security.