We are delighted to report that we conclude 2017 with a bang! Earlier this month, the MRI was a participant at the Global Meeting of the Mountain Partnership in Rome where, following a dynamic period of advocacy and endorsement, we were elected to the Mountain Partnership Steering Committee. This is a real opportunity for the MRI to help galvanize Mountain Partnership members globally, and we very much look forward to a productive and successful collaboration.

From Rome to Kathmandu, where Carolina joined over 200 researchers and experts from all over the world to take part in a conference on ‘Resilient Hindu Kush Himalaya.’ The goal of this event was to identify, discuss, and jointly recommend possible resilient solution packages suitable for mountain areas, starting with the Hindu Kush Himalayan region, and some very interesting conversations were had. Lastly, December was also an important month for the MRI internally in terms of shaping our strategic direction and setting key priorities, thanks to a very fruitful Science Leadership Council meeting. You can find out more about all of these events in this December 2017 newsletter.

The end of the year is also a chance for reflection. As the MRI looks back on a 2017 filled with exciting progress and development, we believe we are also able look to the future with renewed momentum and confidence. 

Wishing you all the very best for 2018, 

Carolina, Grace, Reto, and Christoph.