KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ announced that efforts are being made to accept the Nepal-India Eminent Persons Group (EPG) report through mutual understanding between the two nations.

He emphasized that he initiated discussions on this matter during his recent visit to India.

Responding to lawmakers’ supplementary questions regarding the budget and programs allocated to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its subordinate bodies under the Appropriation Bill, 2081, PM Dahal reiterated that Nepal-India relations and treaties would be advanced based on national consensus.

The Prime Minister also highlighted ongoing coordination with the Embassy of Nepal in Moscow and the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Kathmandu concerning information about Nepali citizens affected by the Russia-Ukraine war.

He mentioned that a task force has been established to provide recommendations for regulating the movement of Nepalis in Russia.

Additionally, PM Dahal noted that diplomatic talks are being held with Ukraine to address the situation of Nepalis held captive due to the conflict.

He assured that ambassadorial appointments would be based on merit and vowed to make the process more systematic in the future.

Government prioritizes rescue of Nepalis abroad

PM Dahal stated that Nepal’s diplomatic missions abroad prioritize facilitating the rescue of Nepali nationals in distress and their repatriation if necessary.

He informed that Nepali ambassadors and mission chiefs have received orientation to ensure dignified, safe, and systematic foreign employment.

Arrangements have been made for services such as the repatriation of the bodies of deceased Nepalis and securing compensation through Nepal’s foreign diplomatic missions, available 24 hours a day.

“Easy contact through hotline services, websites, social media, and telephone services has been established at some diplomatic missions. Shelter homes and psycho-social counseling services are provided for Nepali migrant workers, both directly and online,” PM Dahal added.

The Prime Minister also mentioned that the Department of Passports has improved passport distribution and renewal services, making them more effective and user-friendly.

He affirmed the government’s commitment to mobilizing Nepal’s overseas diplomatic missions and their chiefs in the nation’s best interest.

PM Dahal clarified that the government could recall ambassadors before the completion of their tenure if deemed necessary, as per the Guidelines on Appointment of Ambassadors.

He further emphasized the policy of appointing at least 50 percent of ambassadors from the foreign services to balance political appointments with professional expertise.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that ambassadorial appointments would become more systematic, prestigious, transparent, and based on capacity and job performance, with the Guidelines serving as the main foundation.