The International Union of Alpinist Association UIAA meets in Kathmandu from the 10th October to 16th October, 1982 for its 44th General Assembly and celebrated the 50th Anniversary of its founding.

It was for the first time in the history of UIAA that such an important meeting was held in Asia-most appropriately in the lap of the mighty Himalayas.

Hundred and thirty five delegates from twenty six countries exchanged ideas and experiences on various problems related with mountaineering activities.

On evaluating the problems pertaining to the mountains, an new consensus has emerged in the conference. The UIAA General Assembly has resolved to adopt the following principles and guidelines as a programme for concrete action to be henceforth called the Kathmandu Declaration on Mountain Activities.

1. There is urgent need for effective protection of the mountain environment and landscape.
2. The flora, fauna and natural resources of all kinds need immediate attention 'care and concern'.
3. Actions designed to reduce the negative impact of man's activities on mountains should be encouraged.
4. The cultural heritage and the dignity of the local population are inviolable.
5. All activities designed to restore and rehabilitate the mountain world need to encourage.
6. Contacts between mountaineers of different regions and countries should be increasingly encouraged in the spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and peace.
7. Information and education for improving the relationship between man and his environment should be available for wider and sections of society.
8. The use of appropriate technology for energy needs and proper disposal of waste in the mountain areas are matters of immediate concern.
9. The need for more international support-governmental as well as non-governmental to the developing mountain countries, for instance, in matters of ecological conservation.
10. The need for widening access to mountain areas in order to promote their appreciation and study should be unfettered by political considerations.