KATHMANDU, April 6: The government has begun compiling data on Nepali nationals in the Middle East and preparing contingency plans as tensions in the region continue to raise concerns about the safety of migrant workers.
Speaking to journalists at the Parliament building on Monday, Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is collecting information on Nepalis currently residing in the conflict-affected region and assessing the possible economic impact on Nepal.
According to Khanal, more than 88,000 Nepalis have so far registered their details with the government as part of the data collection effort.
ICC T20 World Cup: England set Nepal a challenging 185-run targ...
“The conflict in the Middle East is not created by Nepal, but Nepali citizens living there may be affected,” Khanal said, adding that the ministry is working to facilitate assistance and possible evacuation if necessary.
The ministry has also set up a 24-hour hotline service to receive calls from Nepalis facing difficulties. However, the minister noted that the number of distress calls has declined in recent days.
For those wishing to return home, the government is coordinating with the Ministry of Tourism and Nepal Airlines to arrange flights. Khanal said regular flights from Dubai have already begun, and several flights have also been coordinated from Saudi Arabia.
He added that the government is prepared to make further arrangements to facilitate the safe return of Nepali nationals from other locations if required.
