The term Sous-Sherpa translates as “under Sherpa.”
Sherpas
The Sherpa are one of the Tibetan ethnic groups native to the most mountainous regions of Nepal, Tingri County in the Tibet Autonomous Region and the Himalayas. The term ''sherpa'' or ''sherwa'' derives from the Sherpa language words ("east") ...
are the Nepalese porters that help climbers in the Himalayas. Experts say when used in the context of the
G8 or
G20
The G20 or Group of Twenty is an intergovernmental forum comprising 19 countries and the European Union (EU). It works to address major issues related to the global economy, such as international financial stability, climate change mitigation, ...
summit the term “Sous-Sherpa” most likely refers to the hefty work load these senior officials undertake in preparation for the summit.
In the United States, the Under Secretary of State for Economic, Energy and Agricultural Affairs (E) traditionally serves as the G8 Foreign Affairs Sous-Sherpa (FASS). Currently
Josette Sheeran
Josette Sheeran (born 12 June 1954) is an American non-profit executive and diplomat who served in the United States Department of State. Sheeran serves as the seventh president and CEO of Asia Society since June 10, 2013. Sheeran was also the Un ...
holds this position. In this role the Under Secretary assists the U.S. Sherpa, Deputy National Security Advisor David McCormick, who is the principal U.S. official charged with preparing the yearly Summit. FASSs from the eight countries and the European Commission meet approximately four or five times each year. G8 Sherpas have a similar schedule. The FASS role necessarily involves following up both within the U.S. government and with our G8 partners on previous years’ commitments to ensure appropriate action is being taken.
See also
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Sherpa (G8) A sherpa is the personal representative of a head of state or head of government who prepares an international summit, such as the annual G7 and G20 summits. Between the G7 summits there are multiple sherpa conferences where possible agreements are ...
Sources
Sous-Sherpa
Group of Eight
Diplomacy