Minister for Foreign Affairs Shishir Khanal has informed about the situation arising due to the growing conflict in the Middle East and its multifaceted impact on Nepal's economy.
Stating that the ministry is taking forward its regular work and the government's 100-point action plan with priority, he clarified the recent efforts being made for the safety and repatriation of Nepalis in conflict-hit areas.
Talking to media persons on the Parliament building premises, he said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is collecting data to take stock of the situation of Nepali migrant workers in conflict-affected areas. So far, more than 88,000 Nepalis have registered their details. He said that the number of calls received on the 24-hour hotline operated by the ministry has decreased compared to the initial days.
He said, "The calls received now are more related to visa expiration, work leave or other regular problems than insecurity due to the war." There is no immediate pressure to return due to the war, and the feedback has been that the Nepalis there feel safe."
The minister informed that Nepal Airlines has started regular flights to Dubai for the convenience of Nepalis and is also flying to Saudi Arabia. Those who want to come from places like Bahrain and Kuwait that do not have direct flights are being facilitated to bring them to Saudi Arabia and then send them to Nepal from there.
Clarifying about air fares, he said, "Due to the increase in fuel prices, the price of tickets in the market has increased by 2-3 times. However, Nepal Airlines is flying at a fare that is about one-third lower than the market price, which has reduced the financial burden on Nepalis."
Minister Khanal said that Nepal Oil Corporation is in serious trouble due to the high price of petroleum products due to the conflict. According to the latest analysis, the corporation is in a position to lose about 17 billion rupees in 15 days.
He informed that the government has already taken decisions such as giving two public holidays a week and starting the academic session of schools later to reduce fuel consumption and reduce the burden of price increases on the general public.
The government is studying the impact of the conflict, saying that it may not only affect fuel but also fertilizer supply, raw materials for industries and remittances.
He said, “We are preparing a report covering all these issues, which we will submit to the government by today or tomorrow.”
Minister Khanal claimed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken forward the work within its scope in its own way and its results are also starting to be seen.
.
