KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security has decided to write to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs requesting it to direct Nepal’s diplomatic missions to take necessary measures for ensuring the safety of Nepali workers in Israel and Iran.
This move comes in response to the ongoing conflict between the two countries and aims to mitigate potential risks to Nepali citizens residing or working in the affected regions.
In a meeting held under the leadership of Secretary Krishna Hari Pushkar, the ministry resolved to formally request the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to direct Nepal’s diplomatic missions in Israel, Iran, and neighboring affected countries to take necessary steps for the safety and support of Nepali workers.
The meeting also concluded that the ministry would begin gathering regular updates on the condition of Nepali nationals in the affected areas through diplomatic channels. Counseling services and up-to-date travel advisories will be made available for Nepalis working abroad in these countries.
The ministry is also preparing to initiate relief, rescue, and repatriation efforts, if necessary, and will coordinate with third countries for transit arrangements during evacuations. In addition, the Labour Migration and Foreign Employment Resolution Taskforce under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been recommended for activation as an emergency response unit.
To support Nepali workers, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation will be requested to waive additional charges for transferring air tickets in light of the crisis. Moreover, the Department of Foreign Employment, Foreign Employment Board, and Social Security Fund have been instructed to expand virtual and telemedicine services to provide mental health support and assist in urgent rescue operations.
The meeting also called for compiling accurate data on Nepali citizens in the affected countries based on labour permits. All concerned authorities have been asked to take necessary precautions in line with advisories from the Government of Nepal and the respective host countries.
Representatives from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Immigration, and other stakeholders from the public and private sectors attended the meeting.
Comment