One Nepali killed in Kuwait drone attack

Kathmandu, July 31

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait has confirmed the death of Nepali national Som Kumar Tamang, 44, from Tehrathum district, in a drone attack on Thursday.

The Embassy of Nepal in Kuwait informed in a statement on Friday that official confirmation has been received from Kuwait's foreign ministry regarding the tragic incident.

Tamang, who was employed as a driver in Kuwait, was killed following a drone attack in the northern region of Kuwait on July 30.

The Embassy expressed its grief over the death of Tamang, paid heartfelt tribute, and offered prayers for the peace of the departed soul.

"The Embassy is actively working in co-ordination with the relevant authorities to complete all necessary formalities, including the swift repatriation of Tamang’s mortal remains to Nepal," it informed in a statement.

Stating the situation as sensitive, it has advised all Nepalis in Kuwait to exercise restraint, remain in safe locations, and strictly observe all safety guidelines issued by the Government of Kuwait.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 1 August 2026.         

VP Yadav leaves for Qatar

 Kathmandu, July 14 

Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav has left for Qatar on Tuesday for a 3-day official visit.

He will convey condolences of the government to the Qatari Leadership on the sad demise of the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed in a statement on Tuesday that VP Yadav is scheduled to handover the Letter of Condolences from President Ramchandra Paudel to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of Qatar on July 15.

The Vice President will be accompanied by high-ranking government officials. He will return to Kathmandu on July 16. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 15 July 2026.         

UAE Minister calls on President Paudel

Kathmandu, July 10

The United Arab Emirates' Minister for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi paid a courtesy call on President Ramchandra Paudel at the latter's office on Friday.

The President's Office informed in a statement that President Paudel and the UAE minister discussed the existing bilateral relations, mutual interests, and concerns between Nepal and the UAE.

The visiting minister also held bilateral talks with Nepal's Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Gauri Kumari.

The talks were focused on cooperation and exchanges in the areas of trade, investment and tourism, as well as matters related to the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri informed at a press meet on Friday.

Earlier, Minister Zeyoudi held courtesy meetings with the Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal, PM's Chief Political Advisor Asim Shah, and Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel.

During the meetings, the two sides discussed a range of issues of mutual interest, including trade, investment, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, tourism, labour migration, infrastructure development, renewable energy and increasing investment through Sovereign Wealth Funds in priority sectors.

Likewise, he also met Minister of Finance Dr. Swarnim Wagle, Speaker of the House of Representatives DP Aryal and the Minister of Home Affairs Sudhan Gurung.

The delegation is also expected to hold meetings with representatives of Nepal's private sector.

Zeyoudi arrived in Nepal on Wednesday leading an 18-member delegation.

836 Nepalis rescued from scam centres

Meanwhile, the government has rescued a total of 836 Nepali nationals from scam centres operating in the border areas of Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand as of July 9. Of them, 709 were rescued from Cambodia, 113 from Myanmar, eight from Laos and six from Thailand.

"At the continuous request of the Nepali Embassy, the Government of Cambodia has been waiving visa fees and penalties for Nepali nationals who have overstayed their visas. This year, the Cambodian government has waived the fees of a total of 602 individuals. A request has also been made to waive penalties for additional Nepali nationals," said Chhetri.

According to the MoFA, it has been continuously coordinating and undertaking initiatives to rescue Nepali nationals who have fallen victim to various online scamming centres in South East Asian nations.

Since 1 May 2026, the Embassy of Nepal in Bangkok has been collecting information through an online form and issuing free one-way travel permits to all Nepali nationals who have lost their passports and sending them to Cambodia.

Relatives of Nepali nationals who are unwilling to return from Cambodia are urged to make every effort to encourage them to return to Nepal.

10 new strategies being prepared

To strengthen economic diplomacy, the government is preparing Country Specific Strategies for an additional 10 countries- Bangladesh, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Malaysia, France, Russia, Canada and Türkiye, bringing the total to 20 countries.

Earlier, in fiscal year 2024/25, the government had prepared strategies for 10 countries including India, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Germany, Belgium, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates.

Nepal-Australia Bilateral meet on July 24

Meanwhile, the third meeting of the Nepal-Australia Bilateral Consultative Mechanism is scheduled to be held in Kathmandu on 24 July. The Nepali delegation will be led by the Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, while the Australian delegation will be led by Sarah Storey, First Assistant Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia.

Nepal and Australia signed an agreement to establish the Bilateral Consultative Mechanism on 14 July 2017.

Likewise, the MoFA said that Nepal is closely monitoring recent developments in the West Asia region.

"We have consistently maintained that dialogue and diplomacy are the only sustainable means of resolving disputes. We support ongoing initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region and ensuring the uninterrupted use of the Strait of Hormuz," it said.

According to Chhetri, the situation of Nepali nationals residing there remains normal, and the ministry continues to remain vigilant regarding their safety and well-being.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 July 2026.         

UAE Trade Minister meets Minister Khanal

Kathmandu, July 9

A United Arab Emirates (UAE) delegation led by its Minister for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi held a meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal, at the latter's office at the Singha Durbar on Thursday.

During the meeting, the two Ministers discussed strengthening bilateral relations between Nepal and the UAE across a range of areas of mutual interest, including greater cooperation in trade, investment, AI, and digital transformation.

They also talked about cooperation in tourism, labour migration, infrastructure, renewable energy as well as increased Sovereign Wealth Fund investment in priority sectors, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) informed in its post on X.

FM Khanal further underscored the enduring friendship and growing cooperation between the two countries while highlighting the Government of Nepal's aspiration to make the upcoming Golden Jubilee celebration of diplomatic relations a major milestone by securing UAE investment in various projects in Nepal. 

The Minister also urged the UAE government to remove the requirement of further verification of the Police Report after attestation by the Department of Consular Services, read the statement. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 10 July 2026.       

SA grants amnesty to 33 Nepali inmates

Kathmandu, June 30

Nepal has extended its appreciation and gratitude to Saudi Arabia for granting a royal pardon to 33 Nepali inmates on the occasion of Ramadan 1447 AH (2026).

“The Government of Nepal highly appreciates this kind gesture as a reflection of the longstanding friendship, goodwill, and cordial bilateral relations between Nepal and Saudi Arabia,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Tuesday.

The pardon was granted following the request made by the GoN through its Embassy in Riyadh.

The inmates will return to Nepal upon completion of the due legal process in Saudi Arabia, read the statement. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 1 July 2026.    

FM Khanal seeks Iranian envoy's support in Jha's release

Kathmandu, May 23

Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal has urged the Iranian Ambassador to Nepal Dr. Mohammad Fathali for his support in expediting process in the case of Amrit Jha, a Nepali national who is currently in Iranian custody.

During a courtesy call by Dr. Fathali at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) on Friday, the Minister made this request.

The MoFA informed in a statement that the Ambassador assured of serious follow-up on the matter from his side.

During the meeting, they exchanged views on the current situation in West Asia and the ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.

Matters relating to strengthening bilateral relations between Nepal and Iran were discussed on the occasion, read the statement.

The MoFA said that as the case pending in the local court of Iran is to be settled in accordance with Iranian law, continuous diplomatic efforts are being made to ensure, among other things, a fair trial for Jha using all available channels. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 May 2026. 

FM Khanal telephones Saudi Prince Faisal

Kathmandu, May 20

Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal held a telephone conversation with his Saudi Arabian counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud on Wednesday and reaffirmed Nepal’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia during this challenging period.

FM Khanal also expressed his appreciation from the government of Saudi Arabia for ensuring the safety and security of Nepali nationals amid the ongoing conflict in the region, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) wrote on X.

"The two Ministers discussed the longstanding bilateral relations between Nepal and Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels," read the post.

They also discussed avenues for enhancing collaboration in trade, investment and other areas of mutual interest, including the promotion of Saudi private sector investment in Nepal, as the two countries prepare to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 21 May 2026.

Nepali workers' outflow to GCC drops by 47 %

Kathmandu, May 19

Migrant worker outflows from Nepal to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries has dropped by 45 per cent in February-March this year compared to the same period in 2025, according to a report of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) published on Tuesday.

This drop further widened to 47 per cent in March-April this year, as compared to last year.

In March this year, 26,561 Nepali workers renewed their labour permits to return to West Asian countries, while 28,383 received labour permits for new entry, according to the Department of Foreign Employment. But individuals receiving labour approval for the first time couldn’t reach their destination as the government had banned their travel.

On the contrary, in March 2025, more than 52,000 Nepalis received labour approval and left for jobs in GCC countries.

While the Philippines witnessed a massive decrease of 78 per cent on a year-on-year basis, Bangladesh's drop sits at 15 per cent.

According to the report 'Employment and Social Trends May 2026 Update: Growing labour market risks of the Middle East crisis', the West Asia crisis is increasingly affecting jobs, working conditions and incomes far beyond the region, as higher energy costs, disrupted transport routes, supply chain pressure, weaker tourism and migration constraints weigh on economies and labour markets.

After the war broke out between Israel-USA and Iran earlier this year, the security situation in the West Asian nation has significantly deteriorated. This has not only impacted the businesses and workers there but also the national and household economy in many developing countries in South Asia and Northern Africa.

The Arab States are the most directly exposed, through conflict-related disruption, damage to economic activity, displacement, energy and trade shocks, and pressure on migrant workers and refugees, read the report.

The ILO predicted that total working hours could fall by 1.3 per cent under rapid de-escalation. This could reach 3.7 per cent under a prolonged crisis and 10.2 per cent under a severe escalation. Such a decline is more than twice the scale recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. "Around 40 per cent of employment in the region is concentrated in high-exposure sectors such as construction, manufacturing, transport, trade and hospitality. Migrant workers are expected to bear a disproportionate share of labour market adjustment," read the report.

According to the recent news reports, jobs of about 80,000 Nepalis is at risk in Saudi Arabia following the suspension of the ambitious 'Future City' project.

“If the crisis disrupts both deployments and remittance flows, the effects could spread to consumption, poverty and local employment in countries of origin,” the report said.

 

Needs for rapid response mechanism

Meanwhile, a tripartite meeting among the government, Nepali missions abroad and the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) held on Tuesday, suggested to create a rapid response mechanism and operate it effectively to conduct timely rescue and repatriation of Nepalis in the conflict-affected countries.

The meeting discussed the safety and management of Nepali migrant workers in the conflict-affected countries in West Asia, and said that digital assistance system must be made effective and accessible.

The meeting, attended by the representatives of Labour Migration and Nepali Diaspora Coordination Division and concerned government and non-government agencies, suggested to immediately implement emergency rescue plans and safe transfer systems.

Stating that the coordination among the NRNA, Nepali missions and the government must be further strengthened and made more effective, the meeting recommended to make the crisis management and risk awareness mandatory components of pre-departure orientation training.

Other suggestions include updated data system for Nepali workers, access to psychological counselling, awareness campaign on foreign-employment-related fraud, and strengthened labour-related bilateral agreements.

Speaking at the meeting, Ramkaji Khadka, Head of the West Asia Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), updated the status of Nepalis in West Asia and said that Nepali missions in the respective GCC countries are vigilant on the situation and are regular communication with the Ministry.

 

NRNA for a high-level coordination mechanism

Recalling the rescue, relief and rehabilitation of Nepalis from countries including the West Asia during the COVID-19 pandemic, president of the NRNA Dr. Hem Raj Sharma emphasised the need for effective cooperation among the government and non-government stakeholders.

"A high-level coordination mechanism should be established immediately between the MoFA, Ministry of Labour, Foreign Employment Department, Foreign Employment Board, Welfare Fund, and the NRNA, and an emergency response mechanism should be set up without delay," Sharma said.

He stated that the NRNA is ready to work alongside the government or through its own mechanisms to take immediate action in rescue, safe transfer, and relief management.

Following the conflict escalation, the government had formed a task force to study the situation of Nepalis in labour destination countries, including West Asia, and Emergency Response Team to assist in rescue and relief operations. The ILO report also noted Nepal's efforts in crisis monitoring and coordination, implementing helplines, emergency response and other support systems activated in countries of destination, including consular assistance, crisis monitoring and coordination, and repatriation assistance.

Nepal also suspended the labour permit to West Asian nation for about six weeks, effective from March this year. More than 30,000 Nepali nationals have returned from the conflict-affected countries, of whom, 21,000 are from Qatar alone.

According to the government statistics, there are 1.72 million Nepali migrant workers in 13 countries in the region whose safety has troubled the government here.

Nepalis in Iran, Israel, Egypt, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Lebanon, Iraq and Cyprus were or likely to be affected by the Israel-Iran war, MoFA had said.

The largest number of Nepalis are in the UAE with a presence of 478,144, followed by Saudi Arabia at 383,865, Qatar at 357,000, Kuwait at 175,000, and Iraq at 30,000. There are 11 Nepali citizens in Iran and 500 in Egypt.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 20 May 2026.

Foreign Ministry puts diplomatic efforts to ensure fair hearing for Jha

Kathmandu, May 18

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) informed on Monday that continuous diplomatic efforts are being undertaken through all available channels to ensure a fair hearing for Amrit Jha, a Nepali citizen who was arrested in Iran on charges of illegal smuggling and transportation of goods in Qeshm Island.

According to the latest information received by the Ministry, the team formed to prepare the Expert Report in the case is in the process of submitting its report to the court.

The expert team was formed about a month ago, according to the direction issued by an Iranian court.

"As the case pending before the local Iranian court will be resolved in accordance with Iranian law, continuous diplomatic efforts are being undertaken through all available channels to ensure, among other things, a fair hearing for Jha," the MoFA informed in a statement.

Iranian authorities had arrested Nepali citizen Amrit Jha along with six other foreign nationals from Qeshm Island in January 2026, before the war broke out between Israel-USA and Iran. Currently, he is being held in custody for judicial remand in Bandar Abbas.

In the same statement, the MoFA expressed regret over the confusion and inconvenience caused by the public dissemination of informal information regarding Jha's release while the case remained under consideration in an Iranian court, while he was in custody.

This confusion was caused by information shared by Nepal's honorary consul for Iran Shahram Shantiaee, with Nepal's ambassador in Qatar Kumar Rai. Based on Shantiaee informed Rai on April 15 that a letter was issued for Jha's release, and he was free.

Ambassador Rai updated Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai about the developments on Jha's release, as the matter has been turned into a great public concern here in Nepal.

Considering the difficult situation prevailing there, the immediate public concern regarding the Nepali citizen, the enquiries made by media outlets, and the fact that the matter had already reached Jha’s family, the Ministry issued a press statement the same day stating that informal information had been received regarding the release.

Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal also shared the information through social media.

But when the MoFA instructed the Embassy of Nepal in Doha to obtain written evidence of his release so that the process of his repatriation to Nepal could be initiated, the mission received an update that Jha had not yet been released, but the court had directed the preparation of an Expert Report in relation to the case.

 

FM Khanal seeks diaspora support in development

Meanwhile, FM Khanal invited the Nepali diaspora community to remain actively engaged as partners in building a prosperous and inclusive Nepal.

Launching a report 'Nepali Diaspora in Australia' as an event organsied by the Institute for Integrated Development Studies (IIDS) in Kathmandu on Monday, he said that the Nepali diaspora in Australia represents one of Nepal’s national strengths.

He noted that education remains a key pillar of Nepal-Australia relations and emphasised that they serve as an important soft-power bridge strengthening mutual goodwill, cultural understanding and multifaceted partnerships beyond remittance, the MoFA said in its post on X.

The programme was also attended by Australian Ambassador to Nepal Simon Ernst, Non-Resident Nepalis, the private sector and researchers. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 19 May 2026.

Task Force suggests creating 'digital profiles' of Nepalis workers abroad

Kathmandu, May 8

The Inter-Ministerial High Level Task Force has suggested the government to immediately create the 'digital profiles' and geolocation mapping data of Nepali workers residing in conflict-affecting or high-risk areas.

"Analyse risk levels and remain prepared for the ‘safe relocation’ and, where necessary, repatriation of Nepalis from affected areas. Establish 24-hour ‘emergency hotlines' and dedicated help desks at relevant Nepali embassies," the Task Force suggested in its report submitted to the government.

The government had formed the Task Force was formed, as per its 100-day agenda on governance reforms, on March 31 under the coordination of Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal. It had 10 members including secretaries from the ministries of Foreing Affairs, Labour, Finance, Industry, Energy and Tourism.

Its mandate was to study the impact of international and regional crises, especially in the West Asian nations, on Nepali migrant workers and economy and to prepare necessary policy and strategy to address the existing and emerging challenges. 

The 100-day agenda on governance reform of the government required to form such task

Earlier, the government had also formed an Emergency Rsponse Team on March 3, led by Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, to respond to the immediate needs of the Nepali workers in crisis.

According to the MoFA, there are 1.72 million Nepali migrant workers in 13 countries in the region whose safety has troubled the government here.

Nepalis in Iran, Israel, Egypt, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Lebanon, Iraq and Cyprus were or likely to be affected by the Israel-Iran war that has affected about half a dozen countries in West Asia. Cyprus is a European country while Egypt is in northern Africa.

The largest number of Nepalis are in the UAE with a presence of 478,144, followed by Saudi Arabia at 383,865, Qatar at 357,000, Kuwait at 175,000, and Iraq at 30,000. There are only six Nepali citizens in Iran and 500 in Egypt.

Two months ago, the MoFA said that the government was facing confusion in absence of established mechanism for rescue and repatriation of Nepalis from West Asia.

Meanwhile, the tensions at the Strait of Hormuz has pushed the price of petroleum products rapidly up which also caused the increase in transportation.

 

Short- and long-term policy suggestions

The summary of the report is made public by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) at a press briefing on Friday. It recommended the government to define short-term actions within 3–6 months, medium-term actions within 6 months to 2 years, and long-term actions within 2–5 years for better management of foreign employment.

According to the Task Force, the government should conduct skill mapping of the returnee migrants and launch skill-employment matching programmes to absorb returning skilled manpower into domestic industries. Skills acquired abroad should undergo immediate fast-track testing and certification through the National Skill Testing Board, read the report.

The report also suggested to operate programmes such as ‘cash-for-work’ to address immediate livelihood crises, and to provide entrepreneurship training and seed capital or machinery grants for those wishing to become self-employed.

Ram Kaji Khadka, Joint Secretary and Head of the Central Asia, West Asia and Africa Division at the MoFA, said that the current crisis in the region had increased the security concerns, expenses of Nepali workers as well as tourists while foreign investment and number of tourists has gone down significantly affecting the local and national economy.

"This could result in Nepali migrant workers psychological wellbeing as well as economic pressures back home. Many families could fall into a debt trap if the crisis sustained and Nepali workers are forced to return home," he said.

 

Creating reintegration fund at local level

As the medium-term policy, the Task Force maintained that the local level must mandatorily arrange a 'reintegration fund' in their annual plans. The government should run programmes to provide concessional loans without collateral to returnee workers to start business, support seed money to establish small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups based on innovative ideas.

Similarly, providing high-level vocational training to returnee workers according to the current demand sectors such as tourism IT and construction, encouraging commercial farming, and establishing mentorship and networks for aspiring entrepreneurs are also suggested.

Other policy proposals are mobilising cooperatives to pool the small capital of returnee workers and operating collective investment projects, arranging local branding, constructing returnee market hub in local bodies, and launching digital skill bank to facilitate direct contact between workers and employers.

 

Substituting petroleum products, a priority

It is important to ensure at least three months’ supply by fully utilising the strategic storage capacity for petroleum products and raw materials. The Task Force suggested strengthening the ‘Price Stabilisation Fund’ while also implementing a policy of blending ethanol into petrol to reduce dependence on imported fuel, immediately. Promotion of electric vehicles, and work from home policy could also be the options.

Promoting the use of electric stoves, reducing reliance on the LPG, increasing domestic electricity consumption, and introducing emergency concessional tariffs during cooking hours are also recommended. Other suggestions include coordinating with airlines to keep airfares affordable, providing emergency tax relief on aviation turbine fuel (ATF), and providing 100 per cent waiver on landing and parking fees for new airlines operating the international airports in Bhairahawa and Pokhara.

"Strongly communicate through international media that Nepal is safe and open. Introduce special concessions and destination packages for domestic tourists. Further simplify the online visa system," it said.

In the medium term, the Task Force recommended to diversify the energy sources, reduce subsidies on LPG, enhance cross-border trade of electricity, provide concessional loans to convert coal or petroleum based industrial furnace and boilers to electric systems and establish battery swapping stations and large charging hubs.

 

Envoys to be appointed via regular route

Meanwhile, Spokesperson of MoFA, Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri said that the appointing ambassadors through competitive approach is not the policy of the government. "The information being circulating on social media is not true," he said while adding that the MoFA is going to follow the established and regular process to appoint the envoys.

He reiterated that the government is trying to resolve the 'Lipulek Issue' through dialogue with India and China on the basis of historical evidences. 

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 May 2026.           

FM Khanal telephones Jordanian counterpart

Kathmandu, Apr. 23

Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal, held a telephone conversation with Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Thursday.

During the conversation, the two Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to working together at bilateral and multilateral levels for mutual benefit, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said in a tweet.

FM Khanal thanked the Government of Jordan for ensuring the safety of many Nepali nationals amid the ongoing conflict in the region.

DPM Safadi congratulated Minister Khanal on his assumption of office.

Meanwhile, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Nepal Ruwanthi Delpitiya called on FM Khanal at his office on Thursday.

During the courtesy call on, discussions were held on further strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation across various sectors of mutual interest.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 24 April 2026.         

Uncertainty persists for work permits for West Asian nations

Kathmandu, Apr. 10

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said on Friday that the government is still evaluating the situation in West Asia to decide whether to issue new labour permits.

The Department of Foreign Employment, an agency under the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security (MoLESS) has begun to issue labour permits for those seeking re-entry to the countries in the West Asian region, including the Gulf, after a brief halt.

But issuing new permits is still under consideration, said Ram Kaji Khadka, Joint Secretary and Head of the Central Asia, West Asia and Africa Division at the MoFA, informed at a press conference organised on Friday afternoon.

“However, we are hopeful of an improved situation following the ceasefire and expect a positive move in terms of opening labour permits for the new migrant workers,” he said while adding that the Ministry is evaluating the situation.

The MoFA is getting updates from the Nepali missions in ten West Asian locations — Tel Aviv, Doha, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Manama, Kuwait City, Muscat, Cairo and Jeddah, along with the Consulate General in Dubai.

They are regularly updating the Foreign Ministry with 'situation analysis reports'.

Likewise, Spokesperson of the MoFA, Lok Bahadur Poudel Kshetri, said that the Emergency Control Room is functioning round the clock. The room becomes operational during the day, while at night, designated officials manage the communication on the move through cell phones and other communication devices.

Nepalis in West Asia and their families in Nepal can register their complaint or suggestions even during night.

The MoFA also informed that 11 Nepali citizens in Nepal are safe. One Nepali, Amrit Jha is in custody on a smuggling case. A persecutor is meeting him on Saturday to get the updates.

Similarly, the government has formed an organising committee to organise the Wellness Day on April 15. On Nepal’s proposal, the United Nations has decided to celebrate April 15 every year as Wellness Day. The government has also directed Nepali mission abroad to celebrate the day grandly.

A Wellness Walk will be organised on April 18, where the foreign missions in Kathmandu will participate.

Earlier on Thursday, Minister for Foreign Affairs Shisir Khanal left for Port Louis, Mauritius, to address the 9^th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) 2026 at the invitation of his Indian counterpart Dr. S. Jaishankar.

FM Khanal is scheduled to hold meetings with his Indian, Mauritian, and Bangladeshi counterparts on the margins of the Conference, said Kshetri.

The Conference, which began on Friday, will run till Sunday, and is being organised by the India Foundation in association with the Government of Mauritius.

During the Conference, FM Khanal will deliver Nepal's national statement articulating Nepal's perspectives on Indian Ocean governance, the mountain-ocean ecological nexus, and the importance of maritime connectivity for economic development, the MoFA said in a statement.

He is scheduled to return to Nepal on Monday, April 13.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 April 2026.      

Over 51,000 Nepalis in West Asia register in DoCS portal

Kathmandu, Mar. 8

About 51,405 Nepali nationals residing in West Asia have registered their details in the online registration system launched by the Department of Consular Services (DoCS) by Saturday evening.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said that the registered details will be reviewed on a priority basis, and necessary procedures will be initiated for appropriate action as required.

Following the beginning of the war between Israel-USA and Iran, the entire region in West Asia has been affected as the latter targeted the US bases in Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and several others. These are the countries where a large number of Nepalis are working.

About 1.72 million Nepali nationals have reached the 13 countries in the region including Cyprus and Egypt in Europe and Africa through the formal channel and by obtaining work permit from the Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE). It is also estimated that a significant number of Nepalis have reached those countries and are working illegally. 

However, a small number of Nepali citizens working in West Asia have expressed their desire to return home.

Meanwhile, 50 transit passengers who were denied food and accommodation by Kuwait Air have been provided with meals and lodging by the Embassy of Nepal in Kuwait City in coordination with the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) and the Nepali community.

"While the airspace over Qatar, Kuwait and Iraq had been closed for flights, it has been reported that Doha International Airport has partially reopened from Saturday to manage passengers in transit," read a statement from the MoFA. Likewise, Dubai International Airport, which had remained open until Friday, has been closed until further notice. As some airspace has reopened, interested passengers may travel through other airports in the United Arab Emirates, as well as through Saudi Arabia and Oman.

The mortal remains of Nepali citizen Diwas Shrestha, who was killed after being hit by a shrapnel in Abu Dhabi on March 1, arrived in Nepal on Saturday. The body is handed over to the father and family members of the deceased.

President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan paid tribute to late Shrestha and expressed deep condolences to his relatives.

He praised the honesty, diligence and commitment of Nepali citizens, and expressed confidence that relations between the two countries would grow even stronger in the coming days.

Prime Minister Sushila Karki held a telephone conversation with President Al Nahyan on Saturday and expressed gratitude for prioritising the safety of all citizens, including Nepali nationals.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made a special appeal to all Nepali citizens to remain calm, vigilant and cautious during this difficult period, and to refrain from recording or sharing photographs, videos or audio materials that may violate the law.

In case of any difficulties, Nepalis in West Asia can immediately inform the MoFA through the telephone numbers or email of the Emergency Action Room, or contact the Nepali diplomatic missions in the respective countries using the contact numbers or email addresses they have provided.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 9 March 2026.      

Uncertainty looms over fate of Nepali migrant workers in war-torn Middle East

Kathmandu, Mar. 7

The tension that began in West Asia (or Middle East) with Israel and the USA attacking Iran has entered the eighth day on Saturday. As the conflict has shown no sign of waning and no immediate solutions being offered by both the parties, concerns to the safety and security of more than 1.72 million Nepali migrant workers in 13 countries in the region have been troubling the stakeholders back home.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Nepalis in Iran, Israel, Egypt, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Lebanon, Iraq and Cyprus are or likely to be affected by the ongoing war that has affected about half a dozen countries in West Asia. Cyprus is a European country while Egypt is in northern Africa.

The largest number of Nepalis are in the UAE with a presence of 478,144, followed by Saudi Arabia at 383,865, Qatar at 357,000, Kuwait at 175,000, and Iraq at 30,000. There are only six Nepali citizens in Iran and 500 in Egypt.

What is leaving the authorities at the MoFA, Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security and other concerned departments like the Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE), Foreign Employment Board (FEB), and Department of Consular Services (DoCS) perplexed is no established mechanism for rescue and repatriation of Nepalis from West Asia.

In the past, the country had sought support from India and a couple of international agencies in rescuing and repatriating Nepalis from the conflict-affected countries such as Afghanistan, Bahrain and Lebanon.

One Nepali, Diwas Shrestha from Gorkha, was killed in an attack in a residential area in the UAE. As the situation is critical, the government is waiting for a favourable time even to repatriate his body. In another incident, two Nepalis were injured but they are already discharged from hospital following treatment.

Nepal has less than a dozen aircraft including the flag-carrier Nepal Airlines Corporation, Himalaya Airlines and Buddha Air. It would take more than a year even if all those were deployed for the rescue operation.

Rescue plan in offing

Spokesperson of the MoLESS Pitambar Ghimire said that the government doesn't have any plan yet to conduct rescue works and bring Nepalis back home.

"The government is finalising the rescue plan. Until then, through a dedicated online system, details of Nepalis and applications for any support are being collected," he said.

Immediate response has also been restricted by the closed airspace in various Gulf countries including Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE.

Ghimire said that the MoLESS has conducted virtual meetings with the labour attaches deployed at the Nepali mission in West Asia.

The MoFA and MoLESS are coordinating with eight Nepali embassies and two consular offices in the region. The missions are issuing various notices, requests and travel advisories for Nepalis in those countries as well as abroad.

The Ministry had also issued an advisory to remain indoors as far as possible, stay alert and take necessary precautions as suggested by the governments of the respective countries. It has also suggested to avoid unnecessary travel without prior approval from the relevant authorities, stay in regular contact with their families and Nepali missions.

The government has formed an Emergency Response Team (ERT) which is led by Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai and includes representatives from the ministries of Home Affairs; Finance; Law; Tourism and Civil Aviation; Education; and Labour and Employment, and DoFE, DOCS, Department of Immigration and Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal.

Likewise, the Emergency Control Room (ECR) established at the MoFA has become fully operational.

It is providing round the clock hotline service, email response, necessary coordination and preparation of situational reports. The ECR can be reached via telephone numbers 9744441227, 9744441228, 9744441229 (including WhatsApp, Viber, and Botim) and email emergency@mofa.gov.np.

However, the DoFE is clueless about the entire process. A senior officer of the department said that they are just an executing agency and function under the directives of Foreign or Labour Ministry.

Similarly, President of the Nepal Association of Foreign Employment Agencies, Bhuwan Singh Gurung, the employers don't take the responsibility for the rescue and repatriation.

He also said that the Nepalis in critical situation and their families contact the manpower agencies seeking help, following which the latter reach out to the Nepali missions abroad and seek help from the DoFE, MoFA, MoLESS and FEB.

But Gurung said that Nepal has an experience of rescuing its citizens from various regions including West Asia, Libya and Afghanistan which can be useful in formulating a new mechanism as well as plan to support Nepalis in the conflict-hit areas.

Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Sushila Karki held a telephone conversation with Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani to discuss the safety and welfare of Nepali citizens residing in Qatar.

On the same day, Foreign Minister Balananda Sharma also held a telephone conversation with his Bahraini counterpart Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani and discussed the security situation of the region, the security strategies adopted by the Government of Bahrain, and the safety of Nepalis, among other things.

 

Labour permits suspended

The DoFE has suspended the labour permits for the West Asian nations since March 1.

"All concerned parties are hereby informed that the issuance of labour permits for employment in the aforementioned countries by this Department and its subordinate agencies has been suspended until the publication of a subsequent notice," read a notice issued by the Department's Foreign Labour Permit Branch in Tahachal, Kathmandu.

A ministerial-level decision of the MoLESS has decided to suspend individual and institutional labour permits for foreign employment in the West Asian countries—specifically Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Yemen, Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, and Israel—until further notice.

However, the conflict has impacted Nepalis who have already obtained the labour permit to go to these countries for employment and those who are in the process to obtain the permit.

It also has a repercussion on the business of the manpower agencies. In the last Fiscal Year 2081/82, Nepalis obtained work permit to work in about 151 countries while about 959 manpower agencies sent Nepali migrant workers abroad. With some exceptions like Israel and South Korea where workers are sent through the government-to-government contract and some individual work permits, most of the workers go abroad through the agencies.

According to the statistics of the Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE), in the month of 2082 Magh (mid-January to mid-February), 15,137 Nepalis obtained labour permit to work in the UAE, 11,592 for Saudi Arabia, 11,580 for Qatar, 5,443 for Kuwait, 148 for Cyprus, and 813 for Bahrain. The numbers are including the re-entry permit.

Two months earlier in Mangsir (mid-November to mid-December), 14,191 obtained work permits for Saudi Arabia, 11,943 for Qatar, 7,707 for the UAE, 3,395 for Kuwait, 1,050 for Oman and 771 for Bahrain.

 

Feeling is intense for family

Nepalis in the UAE and Israel have said that they are safe and less worried. "We also got a notice from the embassy to update our details to the portal if we need to be rescued. It's good that the government has contacted us," said Tikaram Dhakal, who works as a manager in a multinational company in Dubai.

The Embassy of Nepal in Abu Dhabi has notified Nepalis in the UAE and requested them to fill their personal details in the portal created by the DoCS.

Likewise, talking to The Rising Nepal, six Nepalis in Israel and Saudi Arabia said that although there is a feeling of risk, they don't feel the need to be repatriated.

However, their relatives in Nepal are more affected psychologically by the conflict and are worried about the safety of their relatives. Ajay Sunar, a taxi-driver in Kathmandu, is one among them. His wife is working in Kuwait. Although she has assured the family about her safety there, the family members in Nepal are less assured.

A senior journalist's son is working in a hotel operated by an international-chain in Dubai. He also expressed his worries that being at risk away from home is more worrisome.

However, a Nepali youth in Israel said that the information and security system there is at an advanced level and people are informed to move to safe bunkers before any bomb-strike. "I am never worried about my safety here, but my family in Nepal is."

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 March 2026.      

PM Karki talks to UAE President

Kathmandu, Mar. 7

Prime Minister Sushila Karki held a telephone conversation with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on Saturday afternoon.

During the conversation, Prime Minister Karki condemned the attacks targeting civilian infrastructure in the UAE’s sovereign territory and expressed Nepal’s solidarity with the UAE in these challenging times. She urged all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint, avoid escalating tensions, and ensure the safety of civilians, the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.

Stating that war can never be an alternative to peace, PM Karki emphasised that lasting peace can only be achieved through diplomacy and dialogue. She also expressed Nepal’s hope that the situation would return to normal as soon as possible.

She expressed gratitude to the UAE government for ensuring public safety and for taking equal care of all residents, including Nepali citizens working and living there, as well as visitors and those in transit. She also expressed deep sorrow upon learning of the tragic loss of a Nepali citizen’s life on duty at Zayed International Airport on March 1.

Additionally, she conveyed concern upon hearing of two Nepali citizens being injured in the ICAD area of Abu Dhabi on March 5.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Karki also highly praised the UAE President's leadership in continuously contributing to regional and global diplomatic efforts to promote peace and development.

She expressed confidence that, in the coming years, economic cooperation and the relationship between the peoples of the two countries would continue to strengthen, expanding and solidifying their bilateral ties.

Likewise, Prime Minister Karki conveyed heartfelt wishes for peace, justice, and harmony on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan.

“During the telephone conversation, she mentioned that while Nepal is not directly involved in the current tensions, it is bearing the consequences. She also highlighted the immediate concerns about the safety of Nepali citizens, as well as long-term economic pressures such as rising fuel prices, a contraction in investment flows, and increasing inflation,” read the statement.

Prime Minister Karki expressed confidence that transit passengers would gradually be able to depart safely to Nepal or third countries once the situation becomes more manageable.

The President of the UAE Al Nahyan thanked Prime Minister Karki on behalf of the UAE for Nepal’s solidarity and sympathy, as demonstrated by its response as a true friend in these difficult circumstances. He expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of a Nepali citizen.

According to the PMO, he expressed satisfaction with the long-standing cordial and friendly relations between Nepal and the UAE, and commended the hardworking nature and good conduct of Nepali people.

President Al Nahyan mentioned that both countries' ambassadors are making every effort to ensure the safety and welfare of Nepali citizens. He assured that he is ready to take all necessary steps to guarantee the security of Nepali citizens.

He also mentioned that he was aware that some Nepalis wish to return to Nepal and assured that once the situation eases, all possible assistance will be provided to facilitate their return.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 March 2026.      

Nepali missions coordinate rescue amid war in West Asia

Kathmandu, Mar. 6

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said that all Nepali missions located in the West Asia region are maintaining the closest possible contact and coordination with the government agencies of the respective countries and the Nepali community, and are collecting information regarding the situation of Nepali citizens there.

Stating that the government is fully aware of the recent developments occurring in West Asia, the MoFA said in a statement that continuous efforts are being made for the rescue, assistance, and facilitation of Nepali citizens who have encountered difficulties in those countries.

Nepalis in Israel, Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and other countries in the region have been affected by the war that broke out between Israel and the USA and Iran.

According to the MoFA, Foreign Minister Balananda Sharma held a telephone conversation with his Bahraini counterpart, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, on Thursday evening.

During the call, they discussed the overall security situation of the region, the security strategies adopted by the Government of Bahrain, and the safety of Nepalis, among other matters. FM Sharma expressed his thanks to the Government of Bahrain for placing a high priority on the safety and welfare of Nepalis.

Likewise, the Ministry organised a virtual meeting with the 10 missions in the region to obtain updates from the missions regarding the safety and rescue of Nepali nationals in their respective jurisdiction. Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai directed all heads of missions to work in a more coordinated and effective manner.

Meanwhile, the Emergency Control Room established at the MoFA has become fully operational and has begun to provide round-the-clock hotline service, email response, necessary coordination and preparation of situational reports. The ECR can be reached via telephone numbers 9744441227, 9744441228, 9744441229 (including WhatsApp, Viber, and Botim) and email emergency@mofa.gov.np.

Similarly, by Thursday evening, 33,910 Nepali citizens in West Asia have registered their information on the online registration system launched by the Department of Consular Services (DoCS). The registered details are being studied with priority by the DoCS and the relevant Nepali missions.

The Ministry said that the process for necessary action is being moved forward.

Meanwhile, on Thursday afternoon, two Nepalis were slightly injured by shrapnel in the ICAD area of Abu Dhabi. They have returned from the hospital following general treatment.

Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Sushila Karki had called Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani to discuss the safety and welfare of Nepali citizens residing in Qatar. The war has affected more than 1.72 million Nepalis in various countries in West Asia. However, very few have expressed their desire to return home.

  Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 6 March 2026.      

West Asia conflict can add challenge to nation economy

Kathmandu, Mar. 3

Dr. Ram Sharan Kharel, Executive Director of the Nepal Rastra Bank, said that the tensions in West Asia can have impacts on the price of goods and services.

"The price hike in the petroleum products will immediately impact the production and transportation cost which will result in growing price of the goods," he said speaking at an interaction on 'The West Asian Conflict's impact on Nepal’s economy and supply system’ organsied by Nepal Association of Financial Journalists (NAFIJ).

However, he maintained that since the inflation rate is around 2 per cent and the central bank has estimated to contain it below 5 per cent, the inflation risk is low.

According to Dr. Kharel, the country has enough foreign exchange reserves sufficient to cover the import of goods and services for 18 months. "But remittance can be impacted if the situation aggravates and gets prolonged. This will force Nepali migrant workers to return to their homes," he said.

Out of the 17 countries in the Middle East, Nepal receives remittances from 15. Of these, four countries account for 35 per cent of the total remittance inflow. If the conflict is not resolved in the short term, nearly 41 per cent of remittances could be affected, informed Dr. Kharel.

But he said that this can be an opportunity for Nepal. "Nepali industries and entrepreneurs are facing the shortage of workers. They can get workers for the short term. Meanwhile, the banking industry has enough liquidity which can be mobilised to the existing and new entrepreneurs in order to expand the business," he said.

This will create employment or self-employment for the youth.

Dr. Kharel said that the West Asian conflict had added yet another challenge to Nepal’s economy. “Just as the economy was beginning to return to normal following the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, floods and landslides, and now the Iran–Israel conflict is once again likely to affect it,” he said.

There was excessive liquidity in the banking system, interest rates of banks and financial institutions had declined, and it was expected that liquidity management would improve once a new government was formed. However, the Middle East conflict has created renewed uncertainty, said Dr. Kharel.

Speaking on the occasion, Shiva Prasad Ghimire, Chair of the Transport Committee of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and a petroleum entrepreneur, said that an immediate shortage of petroleum products was unlikely.

He said that although the government and entrepreneurs must be concerned to the possible disruptions in the supply of petroleum products as well as essential commodities, consumers need not be worried.

“Nepal has experienced shortages of petroleum products for various reasons at different times. Therefore, whenever conflicts arise in different countries, a certain level of fear regarding shortages spreads in Nepal as well,” Ghimire said.

He stated that considering the overall situation, an immediate shortage of petroleum products does not appear likely.

Ghimire argued that although the current conflict could reduce production and create disruptions in the supply chain, its effects would not reach Nepal immediately. He also noted that only a few days ago, fears of a gas shortage had spread, leading the public to worry about a possible overall fuel crisis.

Likewise, trade expert Ravi Shankar Sainju said that Nepal should learn lessons from the escalating conflict in the Middle East and West Asia.

"The key issue is how the ongoing conflict in West Asian countries will affect Nepal’s economy and what lessons we should draw from it. In reality, we must learn how events in other countries can influence our economy and how to adopt precautionary measures,” he said.

He suggested to move forward by understanding the impact of external events on Nepal's internal economy.

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 March 2026.      

Govt. forms Emergency Response Team to tackle issues of Nepalis in Middle East

Kathmandu, Mar. 3

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) updated on Tuesday that Nepalis working or residing in West Asia are safe.

"Nepalis currently living in countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Lebanon and Bahrain remain safe as of now," Ram Kaji Khadka, Joint Secretary and Head of the Central Asia, West Asia and Africa Division at the MoFA, said at a press conference.

He said that the Nepali missions in the Gulf countries have been continuously updating the situation as well as the status of Nepali nationals in their respective jurisdictions.

Nepali missions in ten West Asian locations — Tel Aviv, Doha, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Manama, Kuwait City, Muscat, Cairo and Jeddah, along with the Consulate General in Dubai — have been instructed to send regular 'situation analysis reports', on the basis of which the Ministry is coordinating its response.

Likewise, the governments in those countries are also giving high priority to the safety of foreign nationals.

Meanwhile, following ministerial-level decision, an Emergency Response Team has been formed under the coordination of the Foreign Secretary including representatives from the Ministries of Home Affairs, Finance, Law, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Education, Labour, Employment and Social Security, as well as the Department of Foreign Employment, the Department of Immigration, the Department of Consular Services and the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal.

One Nepali citizen, Diwas Shrestha from Gorkha, was killed in an attack in a residential area in the UAE. Khadka said that the process of repatriating his body will be initiated once the situation becomes favourable.

More than 100 Nepalis in transit in Dubai are being accommodated in hotels. The Consulate General of Nepal there is coordinating with the concerned agencies to support them.

Likewise, 150 Nepalis working in Kurdistan have been moved to safer locations. About 90 Nepalis who travelled via Kuwait in transit are staying in hotels.

The MoFA updated that according to the report from the Embassy of Nepal in Israel, all Nepalis there remain safe and are in regular contact with the embassy. There have been no new attacks recently.

"Although reports indicate that 11 people have died and 58 have been injured in areas near Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beth Shemesh, no Nepalis have been affected," said Khadka.

Likewise, Nepalis in Qatar are safe. But as Qatar’s airspace remains closed, Nepalis in transit have been accommodated in hotels by the respective airlines.

The Consulate General of Nepal in Jeddah reported that 36 Nepali pilgrims who had travelled for Umrah have had their flights cancelled. The MoFA is coordinating with the airlines and travel agencies to arrange alternative means for their return to Nepal.

Similarly, the Nepali Missions in Riyadh of Saudi Arabia, Muscat of Oman, and Cairo of Egypt also updated that Nepalis are safe there as well as in Jordan and Lebanon.

Director General of the Department of Consular Services (DoCS) Drupada Sapkota has prepared an online registration platform to collect details for possible rescue or emergency assistance to Nepali citizens. She clarified that the Ministry will play a coordinating role in facilitating repatriation and other necessary support if required.

"We are coordinating with the Department of Passports to share information regarding the Nepalis abroad," she said. "We aim to collect the whereabouts of Nepali citizens."

The portal will also collect the contact numbers of the family members or relatives of Nepalis living abroad which will help to establish immediate contact with them in case of emergencies.

According to Sapkota, the DoCS will closely work with the Emergency Response Team to effectively handle the support or rescue work, if needed. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 4 March 2026.      

Foreign Ministry to form emergency rescue team

Kathmandu, Mar. 1

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has initiated a process to form a multi-stakeholder emergency rescue team which will be coordinated by the foreign secretary, and will include representatives from concerned ministries, security agencies and other related bodies.

Speaking with the journalists on Sunday, Ram Kaji Khadka, Joint Secretary at the Middle East, West Asia and Africa Division of the MoFA, said that a WhatsApp group has been created to facilitate the immediate exchange of updated information regarding the security situation in each country and problems faced by Nepali citizens.

The Foreign Ministry is continuously monitoring official statements issued by various countries and the overall security situation.

The Cabinet Meeting on Sunday has also directed the Nepali missions in the Middle Eastern countries to remain highly alert and continuously monitor the situation.

Stating that no Nepalis have been affected by the crisis, Foreign Minister Balananda Sharma informed that the mission have made arrangements to support the Nepalis in transit in case they face any health or transportation issues.

Likewise, the MoFA has instructed the Department of Consular Services to develop an online registration platform and a mobile application for potential rescue operations.

Nepali citizens in the Middle East to register their details on the platform, making it easier to trace and assist them during emergencies.

Earlier on Saturday, the MoFA had issued an advisory for Nepalis in Iran, Israel and other countries in the region. It has also released the contact number and email addresses of the Ministry and embassies in Doha and Tel Aviv.

Meanwhile, the government of Nepal said on Sunday that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States should be respected in line with the United Nations Charter and international law.

"Nepal views that the rules-based international order and the responsibility of maintaining international peace and security should be upheld," the MoFA said in a statement issued following the Israel-USA attack on Iran.

It expressed its deep concern over the evolving situation in the Middle East, and urged all parties concerned to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from further escalating tensions, and ensure the protection of civilians.

"Nepal calls for resolving the differences through diplomacy and dialogue," read the statement.

The recent crisis in the Middle East heightened concerns regarding the safety of Nepalis in Israel, Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and other countries in the gulf region.

Meanwhile, the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) said that amid the difficult circumstances emerging across the Middle East, it is imperative to prioritise the safety of more than 1.9 million Nepalis and to take necessary measures accordingly.

According to the MoFA, more than 1.729 million Nepalis are currently working in the middle east. There are currently six Nepali nationals in Iran.

The NRNA has urged Nepalis in the Middle East to strictly comply with security advisories issued by the respective governments and the Nepali embassies, refrain from going outdoors and remining safe locations, and avoid unnecessary travel.

It also requested them to maintain regular contact with the National Coordination Councils (NCCs), the Secretariat of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), and local Nepali communities as well. The NRNA also expressed it readiness to cooperate with the government stating that the security of Nepali community is its commitment.

Meanwhile, the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) informed that Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon and Bahrain have closed their airspace and no flight operations could be happened there on Sunday. Airlines companies including Jazeera, Kuwait, Air Arabia, Fly Dubai, Nepal Airlines, Qatar and Himalaya have cancelled their flights to and from Kathmandu. 

 Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 2 March 2026.      

Nepal, Qatar reaffirm measures to enhance bilateral economic ties

Kathmandu, Feb. 10

Finance Minister Rameshore Prasad Khanal on Tuesday held talks with a visiting Qatari delegation led by Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) Board Member Mohamed Bin Ahmed Al Obaidly, focusing on strengthening bilateral investment, trade, and economic cooperation between Nepal and Qatar.

The delegation also called on Foreign Minister Balananda Sharma.

The meetings, explored opportunities for expanding government-to-government and private sector-to-private sector collaboration, with particular emphasis on promoting Qatari investment in Nepal. The delegation is in Kathmandu at the invitation of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI).

During the discussions, Finance Minister Khanal stated that Nepal is undertaking legal and structural reforms to create a more investment-friendly environment, the FNCCI informed in a statement on Tuesday.

He underscored the government’s commitment to accelerating economic growth through foreign investment and technology transfer, highlighting Nepal’s readiness to work closely with the private sector.

Minister Khanal pointed to strong investment potential in sectors including energy, minerals, healthcare, education, tourism, agro-processing, and information technology, noting that Nepal offers promising returns for long-term investors.

Likewise, Foreign Minister Sharma reiterated Nepal’s priority to enhance policy reforms and diplomatic facilitation for foreign investors. He highlighted ample opportunities for Qatari investors in energy, tourism, infrastructure, and information technology, emphasising the government’s intention to create a supportive and predictable investment climate.

The meeting was attended by Ambassador of Qatar to Nepal, Mishal bin Mohammed Ali Al Ansari, and FNCCI President Chandra Prasad Dhakal, both of whom reaffirmed their commitment to advancing Nepal–Qatar economic ties.

Expressing a positive outlook on Nepal’s investment environment, Obaidly said the Qatari business community is eager to expand direct cooperation and business exchanges between the private sectors of both countries.

Earlier the same day, the Qatari delegation also held discussions with Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Dr. Bishwo Nath Paudel, focusing on Nepal’s legal framework for foreign investment, banking systems, and emerging investment opportunities.

During the meeting, Governor Paudel briefed the delegation on Nepal’s policy provisions for foreign investment, noting that the country is prioritising foreign capital inflows and continuously advancing policy and regulatory reforms to improve investor confidence. He highlighted Nepal’s efforts to strengthen financial stability, improve banking facilitation, and ensure transparency in investment processes.

In response, Obaidly expressed the Qatari private sector’s keen interest in investing in Nepal, stating that there is strong potential for cooperation in areas such as banking, tourism, information technology, and human resource development. He noted that Qatari investors would be more inclined to invest in Nepal if the country establishes a clear investment roadmap, supported by stable policies and a transparent legal framework.

The Qatari delegation further stated that investors from Qatar are prepared to make long-term investments in Nepal, provided the government ensures policy consistency, legal clarity, and banking facilitation, according to the FNCCI statement.

Similarly, Dhakal highlighted FNCCI's active role in facilitating foreign investment and promoting a private sector–led development model in Nepal. He emphasised the concrete prospects for attracting Qatari investment, particularly in energy, hydropower, tourism, hotels, agro-processing, and infrastructure.

Dhakal reaffirmed FNCCI’s commitment to easing investment processes through private sector–private sector cooperation, government–private sector dialogue, and institutional coordination mechanisms, inviting Qatari businesses to establish long-term strategic partnerships in Nepal.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 11 February 2026.