KATHMANDU: Minister for Labor, Employment and Social Security Ramji Yadav has said that the government is preparing to initiate the process of labor agreements with 16 European countries through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Speaking at a meeting of the Industry, Commerce, Labor and Consumer Welfare Committee under the House of Representatives held at Singha Durbar on Thursday, Minister Yadav said that previous attempts made directly through the ministry had resulted in delayed responses from concerned countries, prompting the decision to move forward via diplomatic channels.
He said Nepal currently has bilateral labor agreements with 13 countries, while Nepali workers are employed in as many as 178 countries worldwide.
Minister Yadav also stated that efforts are underway to curb financial fraud and labor exploitation in the foreign employment sector.
He noted that 48 percent of Nepali migrant workers obtain individual labor permits before going abroad for employment.
Highlighting challenges faced by female domestic workers, he said many travel abroad through irregular channels, making it difficult for the state to provide assistance when they face problems.
Yadav further said that delays in repatriating the bodies of Nepali workers who died abroad, particularly in conflict-affected regions, had occurred in recent times but assured that such delays would no longer continue.
He added that the ministry is working on a plan to create employment opportunities at the local level.
During the meeting, committee members urged the government to take stronger action to prevent Nepali migrant workers from being cheated and exploited abroad.
Committee Chair Rabar Ansari also handed over previous directives and suggestions of the committee to Minister Yadav.
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