"Summit of Friendship: 75 Years of Annapurna Ascent" exhibition at Alliance Française, Pulchowk

The French Embassy in Nepal in collaboration with the Alliance Française Kathmandu, inaugurated the exhibition title "Summit of Friendship: 75 Years of Annapurna Ascent" on April 4. The Alliance Française in Pulchowk will host the exhibition until April 18, 2025. 

The exhibition, which was curated by Swaraj Man Chitrakar, retraces the first successful ascent of Annapurna I (8,091 meters) by a Franco-Nepali team on June 3, 1950. As the first human conquest of an 8,000-meter summit, this accomplishment was a major turning point in the history of climbing and contributed to the development of a close relationship between France and Nepal.

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Addressing the event, French Ambassador to Nepal Virginie Corteval underscored the importance of Nepali Sherpas in the success of the 1950 expedition. The Ambassador emphasized that their knowledge and passion have become instrumental in the mountaineering sector ever since.

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The exhibition also highlighted the contributions of Nepali climbers, evolution of climbing, and major events throughout the decades. It is a part of a larger series of events planned by Team France for 2025 to celebrate the historic ascent.

A video on the 1950 Annapurna trip will be screened on April 23 followed by a conversation with experts in sustainable mountaineering.

In June 2025, the Nepali version of Maurice Herzog's classic book Annapurna: Premier 8000 will be released. Alliance Française finished the translation, which was supported by the French government.

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Furthermore, a panel debate on climate change in the Himalayas will be held in October or November 2025.