एमसिए–नेपालद्वारा न्यू बुटवल सबस्टेशन र १८ किमि प्रसारण लाइन निर्माण सुरु

एमसिए–नेपालले बुधबार (आज) नवलपरासी (बर्दघाट सुस्ता पश्चिम)को सुनवलमा आयोजित एक समारोहबीच न्यू बुटवल सबस्टेशन र १८ किमि प्रसारण लाइन निर्माण कार्यको शुभारम्भ गरेको छ । एमसीसी नेपाल कम्प्याक्ट कार्यक्रम अन्तर्गत निर्माण गर्न लागिएका यी नयाँ पूर्वाधारले नेपालको विद्युतीय सञ्जाललाई सशक्तीकरण गर्नुका साथै नेपाल र भारतबीच महत्वपूर्ण ऊर्जा व्यापार अन्तरसम्बन्ध स्थापना गर्ने मिलेनियम च्यालेञ्ज एकाउण्ट नेपाल विकास समिति (एमसिए–नेपाल) जनाएको छ ।

अर्थमन्त्री रामेश्वरप्रसाद खनाल, नेपालका लागि संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिकाका राजदूत डिन आर थम्प्सन, एमसीसीका आवासीय राष्ट्र निर्देशक डायन फ्रान्सिस्को, एमसिए–नेपालका कार्यकारी निर्देशक खड्ग बहादुर विष्ट तथा स्थानीय जनप्रतिनिधिको समुपस्थितिमा उक्त निर्माण शुभारम्भ कार्यक्रम आयोजना भएको थियो । 

“स्वच्छ ऊर्जामा पहुँचको विस्तार, क्षेत्रीय ऊर्जा व्यापारमा अभिवृद्धि तथा दीर्घकालीन आर्थिक वृद्धि हासिल गर्ने राष्ट्रिय लक्ष्यमा सहयोग पु¥याउने नेपाल सरकारको सशक्त प्रतिबद्धता यस आयोजनामा प्रतिविम्बित भएको छ । एमसीसी र एमसिए–नेपालको सहयोगबाट हामी राष्ट्रको हितका लागि सम्झौतालाई कार्यरूपमा रूपान्तरण गर्दैछौँ,” कार्यक्रममा अर्थमन्त्री खनालले भने ।

“थप भरपर्दाे ऊर्जा प्रणाली निर्माण गर्ने कार्यमा एक प्रतिबद्ध साझेदारका रूपमा नेपालसँग उभिन पाउँदा संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिकालाई गर्व लागेको छ”, नेपालका लागि संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिकाका राजदूत थम्प्सनले भने, “प्रसारण लाइन तथा सबस्टेशन जस्ता आयोजनाहरूले घरपरिवार तथा व्यवसायहरूका बत्ती बाल्नमा मात्र सघाउने नभई यस क्षेत्रभरि नै व्यापार, वृद्धि तथा प्रगतिका लागि अवसरहरू पनि सिर्जना गर्छ । आजको यो कार्यक्रम हामी सहकार्यबाट के कति हासिल गर्न सक्छौँ भन्ने कुराको प्रमाण हो ।”

“नेपालको ऊर्जा सुरक्षा सशक्त बनाउने सन्दर्भमा आज एउटा नयाँ अध्याय थपिएको छ”, एमसिए–नेपालका कार्यकारी निर्देशक विष्टले कार्यक्रममा भने, “यस प्रसारण लाइन तथा सबस्टेशनले ऊर्जा व्यापार विस्तार गर्न तथा नेपालीका लागि दीर्घकालीन लाभ दिलाउनमा नयाँ अवसरहरू सिर्जना गर्नेछन् । नेपाल सरकार तथा अमेरिकी सरकारको एमसीसीसँगको निकटतम साझेदारीमा यस आयोजनाको कार्यान्वयन गर्न पाएकोमा एमसिए–नेपाल गौरवान्वित छ र यसलाई सफल बनाउनमा प्रतिबद्ध छ ।”

यस १८ किमि प्रसारण लाइनले ४०० केभी न्यू बुटवल सबस्टेशनलाई नेपाल–भारत सीमासँग जोड्नेछ । करिब पाँच करोड अमेरिकी डलरको लगानीमा निर्माण गरिने यी ऊर्जा पूर्वाधारले आगामी दशकभित्रमा १० हजार मेगावाट बिजुली निर्यात गर्ने लक्ष्य लिएको ऐतिहासिक ऊर्जा व्यापार सम्झौता, सन् २०२४ अन्तर्गत स्वच्छ जलविद्युत् भारत निर्यात गर्नमा नेपाललाई सघाउ पु¥याउनेछ ।

यस १८ किमि प्रसारण लाइन र न्यू बुटवल सबस्टेशनले नेपालमा बढ्दो रूपमा उत्पादन हुन थालेको जलविद्युत्लाई क्षेत्रीय बजारसँग जोड्ने हुनाले यिनीहरू नेपालको आर्थिक भविष्यका लागि महत्वपूर्ण छन् । नेपालको उच्च भोल्टेजयुक्त विद्युतीय सञ्जाललाई सशक्त बनाउँदै यस आयोजनाले घरपरिवार एवं व्यवसायहरूका लागि विद्युत् आपूर्ति थप भरपर्दाे बनाउनेछ भने विद्युत् चुहावट घटाउनुका साथै नेपाललाई ऊर्जाको वैदेशिक व्यापार गर्न सक्षम बनाउने जनाइएको छ । यी सुधारबाट व्यवसाय सञ्चालनको खर्च घट्नेछ भने नयाँ निजी लगानी आकर्षित हुने र नेपालका विकास प्राथमिकतामा पुनःलगानी गर्न सकिने थप राजस्व आर्जन गर्न सहयोग पुग्ने पनि एमसिए–नेपालले जनाएको छ ।

USAID to provide $58.5 million to ‘advance democratic progress in Nepal’

The US development agency is providing up to $58.5 million to advance democratic progress in Nepal.

Visiting United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Samantha Power announced – during an interaction with the leaders of the government, civil society and private sector in Kathmandu today – that the assistance includes $20 million to strengthen inclusive democracy and prosperity in Nepal and $18.5 million to support civil society and media.

“$40.2 million of the announcement is part of the $659 million development objective agreement announced in 2022,” according to a press note issued by the US Embassy in Kathmandu.

“Following transparent and peaceful elections in 2022, Nepal has an opportunity to strengthen federalism, advance the inclusion of women and marginalised communities, empower its young people, and demonstrate that democracy can deliver for its citizens,” it reads, adding that the United States will be a partner in this effort.

USAID’s investment is expected to help Nepal cement its democratic gains and usher in greater prosperity and resilience for the Nepali people by strengthening public financial management, independent civil society and media, democratic processes and institutions, rule of law, and private sector development.

Power, who also handed over the reconstructed Adarsha Secondary School in Bhaktapur, holds a Cabinet rank in the US order of precedence. The school was damage during the April 2015 devastating earthquake. The reconstruction of the school was supported by USAID and was implemented in partnership with National Reconstruction Authority and Central Level Project Implementation Unit (Education). 

During the handing over of the school, Power also interacted with the students and played basketball with them.

Power, who arrived Kathmandu today, for a two-day official visit, holds a cabinet status and National Security Council membership in the Joe Biden administration. She is also the senior-most official to visit Nepal after the US State Secretary Colin Powell, who was in Nepal in 2002.

A week ago, the US undersecretary of state for political affairs, Victoria Nuland visited Nepal and yet another dignitary is visiting Nepal soon. The frequency of visits of diplomats from the US has increased in recent years, which – according to foreign policy experts – could also reflect the shift in Nepal’s foreign relations priorities and growing geopolitical importance.

Power is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Deputy Prime Minister Bishnu Paudel, civil society leaders and some businesspersons before leaving Nepal tomorrow.

But she met foreign minister Bimala Rai Paudyal at the ministry, according to a press note issued by the Foreign Ministry. “During the meeting, views were exchanged on various aspects of Nepal-US relations and cooperation,” the press note reads, adding that the foreign minister shared Nepal’s view on the need of a clear roadmap and ambitious goal on climate finance highlighting Nepal’s strong commitments on climate change. 

Nepal, on the occasion, thanked the US for its continued cooperation for Nepal’s socioeconomic development, including the USAID cooperation package last year, which has contributed to various areas of Nepal’s development such as health and education, transport and communication, agriculture and environment. 

Power also complimented Nepal’s democratic development and said that the US will continue to support Nepal in its socio-economic development efforts.

Also today, foreign minister Paudyal delivered an opening remark in the event on “Deepening US-Nepal Democratic Partnership” as a guest speaker together with the USAID Administrator. In her remarks, the Foreign Minister highlighted the continued efforts made in the consolidation of Nepal’s democratic processes. 

Power will also ensure that USAID enhances its longstanding leadership in areas including food security, education, women’s empowerment, and global health, it adds.

Prior to joining the Biden-Harris Administration, Power was the Anna Lindh Professor of the Practice of Global Leadership and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School and the William D Zabel Professor of Practice in Human Rights at Harvard Law School. From 2013 to 2017, Power served in the Obama-Biden Administration as the 28th US Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

An immigrant from Ireland, Power began her career as a war correspondent in Bosnia, and went on to report from places including Kosovo, Rwanda, Sudan, and Zimbabwe. She has been recognised as one of Time’s ‘100 Most Influential People,’ one of Foreign Policy’s ‘Top 100 Global Thinkers,’ and by Forbes as one of the ‘World’s 100 Most Powerful Women.’

Power is also an author and editor of multiple books, and the recipient of the 2003 Pulitzer Prize for Nonfiction.

Power was sworn into office as the 19th Administrator of USAID on May 3, 2021. “In leading the world’s premier international development agency and its global staff of over 10,000 people, Power will focus on helping the US respond to four interconnected challenges: the Covid-19 pandemic and the development gains it has imperiled; climate change; conflict and humanitarian crises; and democratic backsliding,” the US Embassy press note reads.

Hong Kong extends ban on flights from Nepal

 Hong Kong extended a ban on incoming flights from eight countries including Nepal until March 4.

The decision today also bans incoming flights from the United States, Britain, Australia, Canada, France, India, Pakistan and Philippines, until March 4, with the Hong Kong government citing concerns over a growing Covid-19 outbreak.

Flights to Hong Kong are down by 90 per cent and hardly any are allowed to transit as the financial hub isolates itself from the world in the hope it can contain a coronavirus outbreak, even though new infections are overwhelmingly local transmissions.

Private sector suggests postponement graduation from LDC

The private sector has asked the government to postpone the graduation of Nepal to the Developing Country (DC) status from the current Least Developed Country (LDC) status.

Submitting a written recommendation to the Ministry of industry, Commerce and Supplies today, Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) president Shekhar Golchha said that Nepal should not hurry to graduate from LDC. If Nepal graduates from LDC, it will not be able to enjoy the benefits including zero tariff and grants from the development partners. The developing country will get loan, and it will also be exempted from zero tariff, provided for LDCs by India, China, US and the EU. “Nepal will also not receive any development grants, if it graduates,” he said,” asking the government not to hurry.

Earlier too, Nepal had postponed its graduation from LDC till 2021, though the country had met two of the three criterion that are necessary to graduate to graduate from LDC. Nepal had fulfilled two criterion – Human Assets Index (HAI) and Economic Vulnerability Index (EVI) – in 2015, which was enough for graduation. The HAI should be 66 or above, EVI 32 and below, and per capita income should be $1,222. Nepal’s HAI and EVI scores stood at 68.7 and 26.8, respectively, which was enough for graduation from LDC, though the per capita income was less. But writing a letter to UNDP, Nepal asked to postpone its graduation as the country wanted to graduate on the basis of per capita income, which is thought to be more sustainable graduation. 

Any country meeting two of the three criterion – HVI, EVI and per capita income – could be graduated from LDC, or a country can graduate, fulfilling only one criteria, if it has $2,444 per capita income.  Nepal’s per capita income currently hovers around $1,000 but in the changed context of coronavirus pandemic, there is a doubt that the per capita income even remains same, as some 6 million Nepalis lost their employment, during the lockdown imposed by the government – from March 24 for 120 days – and subsequent prohibitory orders aimed at containing the spread of Covid-19.

According to the latest UNCTAD report on LDCs too, the world economic crisis brought by the Covid-19 pandemic may affect the previously planned graduation of LDCs that is the exit of some countries from the group of LDCs. 

The LDCs that have better weathered the Covid-19 pandemic from a health policy perspective are those with a broader and more sophisticated base of productive capacities in their economy, the UNCTAD report reads, adding that more generally, the same reasoning also applies to their capacity to respond to other shocks like medical, economic or natural disasters. “Countries that have been able to develop a denser and more diversified fabric of productive capacities have shown greater resilience and have been better prepared to weather different types of shocks.”

The Covid-19 pandemic is estimated to contract the GDP per capita LDCs by 2.6 per cent in 2020 from already low levels, as these countries are forecast to experience their worst economic performance in 30 years, according to the UNCTAD report. “At least 43 out of the 47 LDCs will likely experience a fall in their average income,” it reads, adding that extreme poverty in LDCs is projected to expand by 32 million in 2020 to reach 377 million people. “The poverty rate will rise from 32.5 per cent to 35.7 per cent in 2020, due to the Covid-19-induced economic crisis.”

Meeting the criterion is not only enough for any LDC to graduate, but it also has to prepare a transition plan, so that it keeps sailing above, otherwise, the country could again demoted to LDC. Nepal also has to prepare a transition strategy as it will lose some preferential treatment.

According to a report prepared by the National Planning Commission (NPC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) also, the Covid-19 pandemic may have profound impacts on the graduation criteria, with new risks of rising trade and export costs impacting external markets, and the need for more concessional aid, including debt relief, to overcome multiple crises. With new impact analysis, Nepal also need to bring a transitional strategy.

Graduation from LDC status becomes effective three years after the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) takes note of the recommendation made by the Committee for Development Policy (CDP) under the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UNESC) to graduate a country. Though, the government is in hurry to graduate Nepal, Nepal’s graduation will be effective in 2024, if the committee recommends graduation at its next triennial review in 2021. 

Global trade shows frail recovery in third quarter, but outlook remains uncertain

 UNCTAD estimates show a 5 per cent drop in world trade in the third quarter of 2020 compared to 2019, an improvement from the 19 per cent decline in the second quarter but insufficient to pull trade out of the red.

Global trade recorded a 5 per cent drop in the third quarter of 2020 compared with the same period last year, according UNCTAD’s new Global Trade Update published today. “This marks an improvement on the 19 per cent year-on-year plunge recorded in the second quarter, and UNCTAD expects the frail recovery to continue in the fourth quarter, with a preliminary forecast of -3 per cent compared with the last quarter of 2019.”

Depending on how the Covid-19 pandemic evolves in the winter months, the UN trade and development body expects the value of global trade to contract by 7 per cent to 9 per cent with respect to 2019. “The uncertain course of the pandemic will continue aggravating trade prospects in the coming months,” UNCTAD secretary-general Mukhisa Kituyi said, adding that despite some 'green shoots', it can't be ruled out a slowdown in production in certain regions or sudden increases in restrictive policies, according to the UN trade and development body.

Although a 7 per cent to 9 per cent decrease would be a negative finish for the year, Dr Kituyi highlighted that it’s a much more positive result than was expected in June, when UNCTAD had projected a 20 per cent year-on-year drop for 2020. Since then, trade trends have improved primarily thanks in to the earlier than expected resumption of economic activities in Europe and East Asia.

China has in particular restarted its economy much earlier than initially expected, and the report highlights the country’s notable trade recovery. Chinese exports, after falling in the early months of the pandemic, stabilised in the second quarter of 2020 and rebounded strongly in the third quarter, with year-over-year growth rates of almost 10 per cent.

“Overall, the level of Chinese exports for the first nine months of 2020 was comparable to that of 2019 over the same period,” the report reads, adding that Chinese demand for goods and services has recovered from the decline in the second quarter. “Contrary to other major economies, its imports stabilized in July and August and then grew by a substantial 13 per cent in September.”

Export growth in September was also recorded in India (4 per cent) and South Korea (8 per cent), the report reads. 

Likewise, the sharp and widespread decline in international trade in second quarter of 2020 was similar for developing and developed countries. But exports from developing economies appear to be recovering faster. Year-on-year growth of developing nations’ exports improved from -17 per cent in the second quarter to -6 per cent in July, while those from developed nations increased from -22 per cent to -14 per cent. And South-South trade – commerce among developing countries – has shown some resilience, with the year-on-year decline sitting at 8% in July, up from 16 per cent in the second quarter.

The report’s assessment of trade in different sectors reveals that the pandemic has hit the energy and automotive industries the hardest, while mitigation responses including teleworking and personal protection measures have led to strong growth in sectors such as communication equipment, office machinery, and textiles and apparel. But UNCTAD’s analysis gives special attention to Covid-19 medical supplies, which include personal protective equipment, disinfectants, diagnostic kits, oxygen respirators and other related hospital equipment.

According to the report, exports of Covid-19 medical supplies from China, the European Union (EU) and the United States (US) rose from about $25 billion to $45 billion per month between January and May 2020. And since April, trade in such products has increased by an average of more than 50 per cent. “The increase in such trade, however, has primarily benefited wealthier nations, with middle- and low-income countries largely priced out from access to Covid-19 supplies,” the report says.

Since the outset of the pandemic, each resident of high-income countries has benefited on average from an additional $10 per month of imports of Covid-19 related products, compared with just $1 for people living in middle-income countries and a mere $0.10 for those in low-income countries. This means that per capita imports of medical goods essential to mitigate the pandemic have been about 100 times higher for wealthy countries than for poor nations.

“While it should be expected that the increase of per capita imports of Covid-19 products would be larger for wealthier countries, the sheer difference is staggering,” the report reads, warning that if a Covid-19 vaccine becomes available, the access divide between residents in wealthy and poor countries could be even more drastic.

सरकार हराएको सूचना

एकादेशमा होइन । सन् १९९२ अर्थात् वि.सं. २०४९ सालमा जब बिल क्लिन्टन तत्कालीन राष्ट्रपति बुसका विरुद्ध अमेरिकामा चुनाव लडदै थिए, उनका चुनाव रणनीतिकार जेम्स कारभिलले अमेरिकी मतदातालाई आकर्षण गर्न एउटा नारा बनाए, ‘इट्स इकोनोमी स्टुपिड’ । वास्तवमा जेम्स कारभिलले आर्कान्सस राज्यका तत्कालीन गभर्नर क्लिन्टनलाई चुनाव जिताउन तीनवटा नारा बनाएका थिए । २८ वर्षपछि आज अन्य दुईवटा नारा कसैलाई पनि याद छैन, तर एउटै नारा ‘इट्स इकोनोमी स्टुपिड’ ले क्लिन्टनलाई राष्ट्रपतिमात्र बनाएन, करिब तीन दशकदेखि अमेरिकामात्र होइन, संसारभरका व्यावसायिक एवं गैरव्यावसायिक ब्यक्ति तथा संस्था एवं सरकारको मूलमन्त्र नै बन्यो ।
संसारभर कुनै पनि सरकारको सफलताको मापन उक्त सरकारले अर्थतन्त्र बनायो वा डुबायो भन्ने मापदण्डका आधारमा गरिन्छ । अमेरिकामा बिल क्लिन्टनले राष्ट्रपतिको चुनाव जित्नुमा उनको आर्थिक दृष्टिकोण नै प्रमुख थियो । आज पनि विश्वका विकसित एवं सम्पन्न मुलुकमा आर्थिक मुद्दाका आधारमा नै चुनाव लडिन्छ । नेपालजस्ता गरिब देशमा मात्रै वृद्धभत्ता, युवाभत्ता, बालभत्ताजस्ता वितरणमुखी नाराका आधारमा चुनाव लड्ने गरिन्छ । त्यसैले नेपालको अर्थतन्त्रको समस्याको चुरो चुनावबाटै छ । आय बढाउने, उद्योग गर्न सहज बनाउने, रोजगारी सिर्जना गर्ने होइन; भत्ता बाँड्ने प्रतिस्पर्धाबाट चुनाव जितेपछि अर्थतन्त्रमा सुधार आउँछ भन्नु भोगटे रोपेर सुन्तला फल्छ भन्नुजस्तै हो ।
एकादेशमा होइन । सन् १९९० अर्थात वि.सं. २०४६ सालको राजनीतिक परिवर्तनदेखि वि.सं. २०५२ सालमा तत्कालीन माओवादी जंगल पस्नुअघिसम्म अर्थात् अमेरिकामा ‘इट्स इकोनोमी स्टुपिड’ को नारा घन्किँदै गर्दा नेपालले तत्कालीन परिवेशमा आर्थिक सुधारमा ध्यान दिएका कारण आजसम्म आर्थिक तथा सामाजिक परिसूचकमा निरन्तर सुधार गरिरहेको छ । नेपाली कांगे्रसको तत्कालीन सरकारले लिएको आर्थिक उदारीकरणका कारण नै नेपालले आर्थिक तथा सामाजिक परिसूचकमा निरन्तर फड्को मारेको कुरामा कुनै शंका छैन । बहस जति पनि गर्न सकिन्छ, तर अन्तिम सत्य के हो भने वि.सं. २०४६ पछिको आर्थिक नीतिले नै आजसम्म नेपालको अर्थतन्त्र धानेको हो । हो, तत्कालीन समयमा केही गल्ती नभएका होइनन् । निजीकरणको प्रक्रियामा पक्कै केही गल्ती भएका थिए र ती गल्ती सुधार गर्न पनि सकिन्थ्यो । र, दोस्रो चरणको आर्थिक उदारीकरणमार्फत नेपालमा आर्थिक क्रान्ति गर्न सकिन्थ्यो । किनकि आर्थिक उदारीकरण भनेको निजीकरण मात्रै होइन । निजीकरण त आर्थिक उदारीकरणको एउटा अंशमात्र हो ।
वि.सं. २०५२ देखि २०६२ सम्मको एक दशक नेपाल आन्तरिक द्वन्द्वमा फस्यो र राजनीतिक अस्थिरता, असुरक्षा, नीतिगत अनिश्चितताको दुश्चक्रमा फसेका तत्कालीन सरकारहरूले अर्थतन्त्रका बारेमा सोच्ने मौकै पाएनन् । लगातारको राजनीतिक अस्थिरताले नीतिगत विचलन एवं आर्थिक नीति कार्यान्वयनमा समस्या आए । झन् सैद्धान्तिक विचलन र स्पष्ट आर्थिक मार्गचित्रको अभावमा अर्थतन्त्रको बाटो र गति कहिल्यै निर्धारण हुन सकेन ।
तर, २०६२ सालपछि राजनीति सङ्लिँदै आयो । तर पनि स्थिर सरकार नभएका कारण अर्थतन्त्रले चाहेजसरी विस्तार हुन पाएन, व्यवसायीहरू स्थिर सरकार भएपछि अर्थतन्त्रमा चमत्कारै हुन्छ भन्ने विश्वास गर्न थाले । यसै सेरोफेरोमा, २०७४ फागुन ३ गते आयो— एउटा बहुमतप्राप्त स्थिर सरकार र आर्थिक क्रान्तीको सपना बोकेर । विगत दुई वर्ष आधादेखि नेपालमा शासन गरिरहेको बहुमतप्राप्त स्थिर सरकार छ । एउटा गतिशील तथा प्रजातान्त्रिक समाजमा समस्याहरूको पूर्ण निरुपण हुन समय लाग्छ, किनकि एकतन्त्रात्मक राजतन्त्र वा कम्युनिस्ट सरकारमा झैं त्यहाँ फरक विचारको निषेध गर्न सकिन्न र सबैको कुरा सुनेर समाधान खोज्दा समय लाग्छ नै । तर पनि विगत दुई वर्ष आधादेखि नेपालमा बहुमतप्राप्त स्थिर सरकारले शासन गरिरहेको छ । नेपाललाई आर्थिक विकासको मार्गचित्रमा अगाडि बढाउने योभन्दा रामो अवसर न कहिल्यै थियो, न भविष्यमा पाइने लक्षण नै देखिएको छ । तर, सरकारको धृतराष्ट्रपना तथा साँघुरो सोच, नीतिगत एवं सैद्धान्तिक विचलन, असंख्य भ्रष्टाचारका काण्ड र कुशासनले पछिल्ला तीन वर्ष (२०७४÷७५, २०७५÷७६ र २०७६÷७७) को औसत आर्थिक वृद्धि ५ प्रतिशतभन्दा बढी नहुने केन्द्रीय तथ्यांक विभागकै तथ्यांकले देखाउँछ ।
सरकारका पछिल्ला तीन बजेटले अर्थतन्त्रलाई दोहोरो अंकको वृद्धितर्फ लान कुनै सुधारात्मक नीति ल्याउन सकेन । न त यसले अर्थतन्त्रको संरचनात्मक परिवर्तनमा कुनै योगदान गर्न सक्यो । न अर्थतन्त्रको पुनर्संरचना गर्ने कुनै सुरसार ग¥यो, न आर्थिक सुधार लागू गरेर अर्थतन्त्रलाई फड्को मार्ने तत्परता नै देखायो । त्यतिमात्र हो र ? पछिल्ला तीनै बजेटले न त राजस्वका लक्ष्य भेटे, न त विकास खर्च गर्न सहजीकरण गर्न सके । संसद्बाट पारित भएका पछिल्ला तीनवटै बजेट प्रत्येकपल्ट मध्यावधि समीक्षामा आकारमा मात्र घटाइएन, राजस्व र विकास खर्चका लक्ष्य पनि घटाइए, अनि सरकारले लक्ष्य भेटेको प्रचार–प्रसार गराइए । संसद्बाट पारित बजेटलाई अर्थमन्त्रीको स्वेच्छाले घटाउन पाइन्छ कि पाइन्न, यदि घटाउन पाइन्छ भने बजेट संसद्बाट पारित किन गर्नुप¥यो ? त्यसको नीतिगत, कानुनी, संवैधानिक अर्थ के हो ? यसमा सरकारले बोल्दैन, चुनाव जितेर आएका जनप्रतिनिधि पनि बोल्दैनन् । तर, सरकार र जनप्रतिनिधि कुन व्यवसायीलाई ठेक्का दिने र कसको उद्योगमा ताल्चा लाउने, कसको मुख बन्द गर्ने, कसका कार्यकर्ता कता परिचालन गर्ने, बालुवाटारमा खाजा खाने पालो कसको ? यस्ता झिनामसिना कुरामा छलफल गर्छन्, अझ गम्भीर विचार, विमर्श, विश्लेषण तथा संश्लेषण पनि गर्छन् ।
यतिखेर, संविधानसभाबाट नेपालीले आफैंले आफ्नो संविधान बनाएका छन् । तीन तहको संघीय सरकार सक्रिय छ । त्यसभन्दा पनि महŒवपूर्ण कुरा नेपाली नागरिकले आफ्ना वर्षांैदेखिका आर्थिक एवं विकासका सपना पूरा गर्न प्रधानमन्त्री केपी ओलीको नेतृत्वमा बहुमतप्राप्त स्थिर सरकार चुनेका छन् । तर पनि नागरिक हप्तैपिच्छे माइतीघरमा सरकार खोज्न आइरहेछन् । कहिले कार्यपालिकाविरुद्ध, कहिले ब्यवस्थापिकाविरुद्ध र कहिले न्यायपालिकाविरुद्ध माइतीघरमा युवाहरू भेटिन्छन् । राज्यका कुनै निकायले काम गर्दैनन। किनकि बहुमतप्राप्त सरकार बालुवाटारभित्रै हरायो । माइतीघरका युवाहरू मात्र होइन, नेपालमा आज धेरैको जिज्ञासा एउटै हुन्छ, बहुमतप्राप्त स्थिर सरकार कता हरायो ?
पछिल्लो करिब पाँच महिनादेखि कोभिड–१९ को महामारी र अझ पछिल्ला साताहरूमा बाढीपहिरोको आतंकले अर्थतन्त्रलाई आहत बनाएको मान्ने हो भने पनि त्यसभन्दा अघि सरकार के गर्दै थियो ? प्रश्न सोध्न निषेध छ । मानौं, प्रश्न सोध्नु हतियार उठाएर क्रान्ति गर्नुभन्दा खतरा हो । प्रश्नले राष्ट्रियता, सार्वभौमसत्ता तथा राष्ट्रिय एकतामा गम्भीर असर पार्छ । देशमा गरिबी बढोस्, बेरोजगारी बढोस्, अर्थतन्त्र तहसनहस होस् तर प्रश्न सोध्न पाइन्न । मन्त्रीहरूले करोडौं, अर्बौं भ्रष्टाचार गरून्, प्रश्न सोध्न पाइन्न । मानौं, भ्रष्टाचार गर्नु मन्त्रीहरूको जन्मसिद्ध अधिकार हो । उनीहरूले आजसम्म गरेको त्यागको ब्याजसहित उठाउन पनि मन्त्रीहरूले भ्रष्टाचार गर्नैपर्छ । मन्त्रीको भ्रष्टाचारको फड्के किनारको साक्षी बस्न बनाइएको एउटा बुख्याचा छ — अख्तियार, जो २०–३० हजारका भ्रष्टाचारमात्र देख्छ ।  प्रधानमन्त्री भ्रष्टाचारको मुखै हेर्दिन भन्छन् र गम्लंग अंगाले मारेर बस्छन् ।
यता, सरकारका लागि अर्थतन्त्र भनेको कर्मचारीले तलब खाने, राजनीतिक दलले चुनाव लड्न तथा विदेश घुम्न चाहिने खर्चबर्च ब्यापारीले बहन गरिदिने तथा आफ्ना कार्यकर्तालाई जागिर खुवाउनु मात्र हो भन्ने बुझाई छ । आफ्ना कार्याकर्तांले काम नगरिकनै तर्साएर, धम्काएर भए पनि पैसा कमाउनु अर्थतन्त्र हो, बाँकी उद्योग चलाउने, रोजगारी सिर्जना गर्ने वा औपचारिक आयबाट कर तिर्ने भनेका मूर्ख हुन्, सरकार नेपाली समाजमा आर्थिक क्रान्तिको नयाँ भाष्य स्थापना गर्न उद्यत छ । नेपालमा सबैभन्दा फाइदा हुने ब्यवसाय राजनीति हो । धेरैभन्दा धेरै राजनीतिक दल खोलौं, यसमा आय–व्ययको हिसाब पनि लटरपटर गरे हुन्छ, कर पनि तिर्नु पर्दैन र शतप्रतिशत नाफामात्र छ । तर, प्रधानमन्त्रीको बहुचर्चित सपना ‘सुखी नेपाली ः समृद्ध नेपाल’ बनाउने हो भने त सबल एवं आत्मनिर्भर अर्थतन्त्र बनाउनुको विकल्प छैन । सबल एवं आत्मनिर्भर अर्थतन्त्र नबनिकन रत्नपार्कमा टायर बालेकै भरमा राष्ट्रिय स्वाधीनता र सार्वभौमसत्ता जोगिँदैन पनि, किनकि अन्त्यमा फेरि ‘इट्स इकोनोमी स्टुपिड’ । 

US-NPRC demand MCC to be ratified immediately

The US-Nepal Policy Research Center (US-NPRC) has demanded for immediate ratification of the multi-million US dollar Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact
Saying that a failure could tarnish Nepal's international image, the US-based Center said that it wants to urge the Nepal government, the parliament and political leaders to be serious and honest in implementing the compact. “The failure on timely ratification could tarnish Nepal's international image and trustworthiness.”
The implementation of the project has to be completed within five years beginning June 2020 and the delay could hamper its timely completion," a press note issued by the centre reads.
In September 2017, the US government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) signed a $500 million compact with Nepal. The compact aims to increase the availability and reliability of electricity, maintain road quality, and facilitate power trade between Nepal and India, helping to spur investments, accelerate economic growth, and reduce poverty..
The US-NPRC is working in the field of science, technology, education and policy through research, training, professional development programmes, and share knowledge and experience gained from research and analysis through training, seminar, and workshops in the US and Nepal.
The center has over 50 members across the US, mostly academicians.

Nepal to seek clarification of relations between MCC and IPS

The ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) is backing off from its commitment and agreement to start implementation of the mega US grant project, and seeking clarification from the US on relations between Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS).
Replying the members at the standing committee meeting co-chair of Nepal Communist Party (NCP) Pushpa Kamal Dahal today said that Nepal could accept US assistance under MCC compact programme after clearance from its relation with IPS, which some of the ruling party members think a military alliance to counter China – the northern neighbour – and Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Dahal said that Nepal could accept the MCC only after considering the strings attached to the programme, according to the NCP (NCP) standing committee member Beduram Bhusal. “We have to see how far the conditions of the MCC programme suit Nepal’s national interests,” Bhusal quoted Dahal as telling the committee. “Dahal said while Nepal should continue to enjoy its old and cordial relations with the US, it could not be part of any military alliance in the guise of any programme.”
Some of the standing committee members told the meeting that MCC is part of the IPS and hence Nepal should not accept it. They put pressure on the leadership and the government seeking clarity from the US on MCC, and its relations to IPS. “The IPS has been a subject of speculation among the political and diplomatic circles ever since foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali visited Washington last December,” they claimed.
Nepal became eligible for the MCC – announced in 2002 by US President George W Bush – in 2011 and signed the agreement in 2017. Though, the MCC compact was signed by Nepali Congress (NC) government of which the former Maoist party was a coalition partner, the ruling party – unified between former Maoist party and fomer CPN(UML) party – has been sharply divided about endorsing the US grant from the Parliament.
The implementation of MCC will start once the Nepal’s Parliament ratifies it. The MCC, however, did not pass during the previous House session because of the reluctance of then House Speaker Krishna Bahadur Mahara, though foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali assurance that MCC was not part of IPS. The government spokesperson and minister for Communication and Information Technology Gokul Baskota has – during his regular weekly press briefing – also claimed that the MCC will be ratified by the Parliament’s winter session that started yesterday. The opposing ruling party leaders did not believe even the Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who has also claimed that the MCC will be endorsed during the winter session of Parliament.
The US has announced that it will provide assistance of $500 million in grants to Nepal under the MCC programme over the next five years. Nepal has to invest more than Rs 13 billion – as a matching fund – for the programme. The grant will be used to construct the toad and transmission lines, for better connectivity. Nepal plans to use the grant to develop the 400-KV Nepal-India Butwal-Gorakhpur electricity transmission line and to upgrade some roads.
The US officials have repeatedly termed MCC an important initiative under the Washington-led IPS. The US officials including US envoy to Nepal Randy Berry have also time and again clarified that IPS is just a US ‘policy’ and it does not require or demand membership from anyone. But opposing leaders have been claiming that the MCC is part of the US military strategy IPS to counter China and Beijing’s influence.
The leaders, who are opposing the MCC, are also claiming that the provision – in the agreement – allowing only the US to terminate the agreement is faulty. “Nepal should include a provision allowing it also to terminate the agreement as the provision is against the spirit of equality between sovereign countries,” a standing committee member Bhim Rawal said, adding that Nepal should also be allowed to audit the accounts, which according to the agreement, is not allowed. Rawal – in the standing committee meeting – asked foreign minister Gyawali to seek clarification from the US, if the grant is provided as a part of the IPS.
The ongoing debate over the MCC, according to the experts, is nothing but ‘the best example of ruling party’s myopic diplomacy.’ But foreign minister Gyawali ruled out any diplomatic friction between Nepal and the US due to the ongoing debate on the US programme and the growing demand from the party members to seek clarity from Washington.

US provides $150,000 for restoration of Krishna temple

The US Embassy awarded $150,000 through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) to the Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust for conservation of the octagonal Krishna temple that was severely damaged in the 2015 earthquakes.
During a ceremony organised at Patan Durbar Square today, US Ambassador to Nepal Randy W Berry, ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback, Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City Chiribabu Maharjan, and director general of Department of Archaeology Damodar Gautam commemorated the beginning of restoration and conservation work, according to a press note issued by the US Embassy.
AFCP funding will support seismic strengthening and conservation of the shikhara style octagonal Krishna temple. Built in 1723, the temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and uses an innovative form of stone masonry that is unparalleled in South Asia. The conservation work is expected to be completed within two years.
“This programme shows the depth of America’s respect for the cultural heritage of Nepal,” ambassador Berry said. “From our first AFCP project, Kal Bhairab, in 2003 to this latest Krishna temple restoration, America has been a proud partner of Nepal in its effort to conserve the unique and irreplaceable heritage in Nepal.”
On the occasion, director general Gautam highlighted the lasting effects of the US Embassy’s efforts. “We are grateful for the US government’s support in the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage sites in Nepal,” he said, adding that from Gaddi Baithak to Patan Royal Palace to this temple, the funding received through the AFCP has greatly helped the Government of Nepal’s post-earthquake cultural heritage restoration efforts.

North Koreans yet to close business operations in Nepal

North Korean businesses defied the government decree and yet to close their operations in Nepal despite the government deadline.
The Department of Industry (DoI) – on September 16 – wrote letters to the North Korean business owners in Nepal to shut down their enterprises and repatriate their investment by October 31.
But defying the government’s notice, they are yet to cease their businesses. “The department is yet to receive formal notice from the North Korean business operators that they have ceased their operations in Nepal,” informed director of the department Binod Khadka.
The North Korean enterprises have not initiated the process of repatriating their investment, for which they need to approach the Finance Ministry and the central bank, he said, adding that the department is, however, planning to hold discussions with Industry, Home and Foreign Ministries for the next course of action. “We are waiting formal letter from the North Korean business owners that they have complied with the department’s instruction, closed their operations and repatriated their investment.”
The North Koreans have been operating nine business enterprises in Nepal – two software companies, a hospital and six restaurants – including  Ne-Koryo Hospital in Tanahun district and Himal Chilbo Technical Solutions in Lalitpur district. “Likewise, they were also operating Hotel Re Min & Restaurant, Pyongyang Akugyan Nepal, Pyongyang Arirang Restaurant, Yong Bong Chand IT Company, Botonggang Restaurant and Bar, Himalayan Soje Restaurant and Minas Restaurant and Bar in Kathmandu district.”
The US had – on June 15 – asked Nepal not to entertain North Koreans in the country stating that Nepal as a member of the UN should respect the decision taken by the global body to impose sanctions on North Korea. The growing business activities of North Koreans in Nepal had become a matter of serious concern in view of the UN Security Council Resolution against Pyongyang.
The Foreign Minister – on July 1 – forwarded the report of UN resolution 2397 related to North Korean sanctions to the Industry Ministry and asked to take appropriate decisions.
Thus – on September 16 – Nepal banned North Korean investment in the Himalayan country and the Department of Industry (DoI) asked the North Koreans to close their businesses by the end of October.
Earlier – on August 9 – too, the department had written a letter to one of the restaurants – Hiamalayan Soju Restaurnet Pvt Ltd – run by North Korean, to close the business as according to the discussion with the business in the presence of North Korean Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Kim Jong.
“The department had held discussion with the investors from North Korea in presence of North Korean Embassy DCM Kim Jong to close all the businesses run by them by August 15,” the letter reads, adding that the agreement has not been implemented even after repeated telephone calls. “After repeated discussions with the embassy official and North Korean businesses, the department has given them the final deadline of October-end to shut down their enterprises and repatriate their existing investment.”
Nepal had then extended visas of foreign workers employed in the North Korean companies up to October 31 only.

US reports investment barriers in Nepal

The US Department of State has reported a gamut of investment barriers in Nepal.
The department’s ‘2019 Investment Climate Statements: Nepal’ has critisised Nepal’s business climate claiming various institutional and procedural impediments. “Nepal offers opportunities for investors willing to accept inherent risks and the unpredictability of doing business in the country,” the report reads, adding, “Significant investment barriers remain, while Nepal has established some investment-friendly laws and regulations.”
Questioning the government’s capacity to implement reforms including newly enacted laws including the Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, Industrial Enterprise Act, Special Economic Zone Act intended to attract increased foreign investment, the report has expressed serious doubt over the delivery.
The government has lined up around 3 dozen Acts and Policies in parliament to amend them to encourage and attract investment but the private sector has been confused as the amendmends are more regressive than progressive according to the recent business environment.
The domestic investors have also blamed that the laws pose impediments and restrictions to foreign investment, despite the amendments to attract foreign investment. The government, in a move to discourage the petty foreign investment and attract bigger ones, reduced the minimum threshold on foreign investment but failed to minimise business risk.
“Three laws directly impacting foreign investment were hurriedly revised and passed by Parliament ahead of the 2019 Investment Summit,” the report reads, adding that it left little time for consultations or transparency in the process. “The ‘petty bureaucracy’ based hindrances have impeded smooth conduct of business and the issues remain unaddressed in the absence of pay-offs or personal interventions with cabinet-level officials.”
Rather than systematic and routine processes, many foreign investors note that Nepal’s regulatory system is based largely on personal relationships with government officials, the report further reads, quoting a World Bank official as saying that corruption in Nepal was 'endemic, institutionalised, and driven from the top'. “Corruption takes many forms but is pervasive in the awarding of licences, government procurement, and revenue management,” it adds.

USAID, DIFID join hands to combat human trafficking

Development agencies of the United States and the United Kingdom today announced a partnership to support the Nepal in combating human trafficking.
Partnership between the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID) will expand USAID’s ongoing ‘Hamro Samman Project’ to support the government’s efforts to combat human trafficking in 10 districts.
“For over a decade, USAID’s support has enabled Nepal to strengthen its 49 policies to prevent human trafficking, prosecute traffickers and protect and rehabilitate survivors,” USAID Nepal Mission director Amy Tohill-Stull said speaking at the signing ceremony. “We are pleased that DFID has joined our partnership,” he said, adding that the joint collaboration will enable us to expand our efforts to address this serious issue.
Likewise, head of DFID in Nepal Rurik Marsden, on the occasion, said that the UK is committed to working with the Government of Nepal to help end modern slavery in Nepal. “We are happy to join hands with USAID in this mission,” he said, adding that DFID’s contribution will help strengthen government mechanism to address human trafficking and generate better plans to curtail the crime.
The US Government’s Trafficking in Person Report-2018, ranks Nepal as a tier two country and identifies it as a source, transit and destination country for human trafficking. While this report estimates that 30,000 Nepali girls and women are commercially exploited for sex each year, Global Slavery Index 2018 estimates that 171,000 Nepalis are subject to slavery at any given time, according to a press release issued by the US embassy in Kathmandu.
Despite these challenges, Hamro Samman, which was initiated in 2017 and is implemented by Winrock International, has made substantial strides in reducing human trafficking in Nepal, the release reads, adding that over the project’s remaining three years, the partnership with DFID will add to Hamro Samman’s past success in combining human trafficking.

US Embassy to help restore Dzong monastery in Mustang

US ambassador Randy W Berry and Provincial Assembly member Mahendra Bahadur Thakali inaugurated the restoration of the 16th century Dzong Chode Shedup Choepel Ling Gompa – popularly known as Dzong monastery – at Dzong village in Mustang today.
The US embassy contributed $100,000 – through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) – of the total $123,681 budget allocated for restoring and seismically strengthening the historic site, which was damaged during the 2015 earthquakes, according to a press release issued by the US Embassy in Kathmandu.
Dzong Gompa Management Committee will contribute the remaining $23,681, and Heritage and Environment Conservation Foundation Nepal will carry out the restoration work, which is expected to be completed by September 2020.
Through extensive consultations with the local community and DGMC, HECFN will seismically strengthen the structure while preserving the centuries old paintings inside the monastery, the press note reads, adding that the project will employ local artisans and provide on-site training to local youths to sustain maintenance of the monastery after the project is completed. “Our cultural preservation partnership with Nepal is a tangible symbol of our mutual friendship, and shows our respect for Nepal’s diverse and rich heritage,” said ambassador Berry in the statement. “This restoration will support local community efforts to protect these structures, and encourage future generations to continue caring for these unique, invaluable treasures of the Himalayan culture.”
AFCP is the only US government programme that provides direct grant support to preserve cultural heritage in developing countries. Since 2003, the US embassy has supported 24 other AFCP projects totalling $3.37 million in Nepal. AFCP projects in Nepal include the restoration of ancient Buddhist chhortens in Upper Mustang, the 11th century Rinchenling Monastery in Humla, MahaKal Bhairav temple in Kathmandu Durbar Square and the historic Gaddi Baithak palace in downtown Kathmandu recently.

US Embassy and Nepal Communitere launch American Arts Incubator-Nepal

The US Embassy in Kathmandu and Nepal Communitere have jointly launched the American Arts Incubator (AAI)-Nepal programme today with an 'artist talk', where American artist Jennifer Berry will talk about her previous work and creative practice, and share with us her approach to the incubator.
American Arts Incubator (AAI) is an initiative of the US Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs in partnership with ZERO1 that sends US artists abroad to collaborate with local communities for a month-long incubator. The creative collaborations transfer skills in art, technology, and entrepreneurship. Through the digital and new media art workshops, the artists facilitate dialogue and explorations of the social challenge, reads a press note issued by the US Embassy in Kathmandu.
In Kathmandu, through Berry’s workshops, 17 participants selected through an open call, will learn the basics of digital fabrication and 3D printing to create innovative and participatory projects that engage the public around the theme of opportunity for women. The AAI programme will be hosted at Nepal Communitere, a community-based innovation hub that works with diverse change-makers to convert their ideas into reality.
The participants can also receive small grants to work on their project ideas. The month-long program will close with a panel review and open house to the public at Nepal Communitere from April 25-27.

Kathmandu ranked 19th best tourism destination in the globe

Kathmandu has been ranked 19th out of 25 world's best tourism destinations for the year 2019.
The world's largest travel site of the United States (US), tripadvisor.com, has included capital city Kathmandu in the list of 25 best tourism destinations for the year 2019.
The website – that has incorporated Nepal's capital surrounded by a valley full of historic sites, ancient temples, shrines, and fascinating villages in the list of prime tourism destinations – provides comprehensive information about travel and possible visiting sites to the tourists.
Mingle with locals and animals amid Durbar Square’s monuments, or join mountain trekkers in the bustling Thamel District, it reads, adding that explore shops for exquisite work by local artisans - carpets are some of the activities tourists like most in Nepal. "Garden of dreams, Kopan Monastery, Pashupati Nath are specialties of Nepal for tourists."
United Kingdom's capital London has been ranked the first followed by Paris of France and Rome of Italy in the list.

US envoy 'absent' in the government briefing

US ambassador to Nepal Randy Berry today skipped the government’s briefing to foreign diplomats based in Kathmandu. Instead deputy chief of Mission of the US Embassy Michael C Gonzales was presented in the government briefing – the third of its kind after the KP Sharma Oli-led government was formed almost a year ago – where ambassadors and deputy chiefs of missions from all diplomatic missions were present, according to the Foreign Ministry.
US ambassador to Nepal Berry’s 'conspicuous' absence to the government briefing has, however, made some eyebrows raised due to latest tension between US and Nepal on Venezuela.
The ruling party’s co-chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal on January 25 issued a statement against the US 'involvement' on Republic of Venezuela’s current state-of-affairs. The US – through the Embassy in Kathmandu and also in Washington – sought the government's official view following the Dahal's statement as he is the co-chairman of the ruling party. The government, though, issued another formal statement – on January 29 – arguing that Nepal still follows the no aligned policy but the statement was almost in line with the Dahal's statement.
The US State Department had sought an explanation from Nepali ambassador to US Arjun Karki – in the Washington DC – following Dahal's statement that supported Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and denounced ‘intervention in internal affairs’ of Venezuela by the US and its allies. Senior officials from the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs at the State Department asked Nepali envoy Karki in Washington DC to submit clarification as – according to the US official – the US did not expect such statement from the leader of the ruling NCP (NCP) without any background on the internal affairs of Venezuela.
Though, the government tried to make its position clear in the issue of political crisis in Venezuela, the US has not been convinced.
The absence of the US envoy today in the government briefing in Kathmandu is diplomatic answer of the US to Nepal, according to a foreign policy expert. The US Embassy has currently been engaging with political leaders, high-level government officials and media to discuss the US government’s position on Venezuela also due to the government’s weak attempt to clarify its position.

ILO commends reforms of Qatar towards workers' rights

The governing body of the International Labour Organisation (ILO GB) – during its session held today in Doha – reviewed the important achievements and legislative reforms undertaken by the State of Qatar as part of its ongoing efforts to promote and protect the rights of expatriate workers.
The head of the International Labour Office in Doha presented a report on the important steps and actions made by the State of Qatar in a short period of time, and its cooperation with the ILO through the implementation of a number of programmes and activities relating to the promotion of the wage protection system, the development of plans and training for Labour Inspectors, combatting trafficking in human beings, and measures relating to the  recruitment process, the contract system and the strengthening of the complaint mechanisms.
The members of the ILO governing body among governments, in particular the United States (US) government, the governments of the European Union (EU) and Canada, as well as the Employers 'and Workers' groups commended the reforms undertaken by the State of Qatar, including the abolition of the exit visas, the creation of a workers' support fund and the creation of joint workers’ committees.
The members of the governing body also welcomed the constructive cooperation and the partnerships between the government of the State of Qatar and a number of governments, including the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), Switzerland, the Netherlands, as well as with the social partners including the International Organisation for Employers (IOE), the International Federation of Building and Wood Workers (BWI) and the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF).
On the occasion, assistant undersecretary for labor affairs Mohammed Hassan Al Obaidli – at the meeting – stressed the cooperation and desire of the State of Qatar to ensure a productive working environment that is beneficial to all parties in the work system and to abide by the international labor standards and the ratified conventions and to continue   With all partners to provide a safe working environment and protect the rights and interests of all parties of.
He – on the occasion – extended thanks and appreciation to the partners of the State of Qatar from governments and employers 'and workers' organisations for their support of the efforts of the State and the International Labour Office in achieving activities and objectives of the Technical Cooperation Programme.

Danuwar wins top US honour

Sunita Danuwar from Nepal is among the ten activists working against human trafficking selected by the US Department of State for 2018 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) honour’s list.
Danuwar – the co-founder and executive director of the anti-trafficking NGO Shakti Samuha –  works to elevate survivors’ perspectives and raises awareness about human trafficking in poor and rural communities.
Issuing a press note today, the US Embassy in Kathmandu congratulated Danuwar for her efforts in the face of serious challenges to protect victims, punish traffickers, and raise awareness on human trafficking.
The US Embassy in Kathmandu also said that Danuwar was recognised for her commitment to providing services to survivors and at-risk communities across Nepal. “The report assesses governments around the world on their efforts to combat modern slavery and presents an updated, global look at the nature and scope of trafficking in persons," the press note reads.
US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo joined the advisor to the President Ivanka Trump to release the US Department of State’s annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report 2018 in Washington, DC. During the ceremony, secretary Pompeo also honoured the State Department’s 2018 TIP Heroes including Sunita Danuwar.
Danuwar is one of the only 10 anti-trafficking TIP Heroes selected from around the world to receive the international honour, which celebrates the work and achievements of exceptional individuals, who have devoted their lives to the fight against human trafficking. Danuwar was recognised for her commitment to providing services to survivors and at-risk communities across Nepal.
"Modern slavery has no place in the world, and I intend to ensure, through diplomatic engagement and increased action, that the US government’s leadership in combating this global threat is sustained in the years to come," said secretary Pompeo speaking on the occasion.
The report assesses governments around the world on their efforts to combat modern slavery and presents an updated, global look at the nature and scope of trafficking in persons. This year’s report also focuses on the effective ways local communities can address human trafficking proactively and on how national governments can support and empower them.
The report also recognises that Nepal has made progress to eliminate human trafficking through increased efforts to prevent it, as well as modest improvements in law enforcement and victim protection efforts.
It has recommendaed for improvements that Nepal can make to meet the minimum international standards for the elimination of trafficking. The recommendations include acceding to the 2000 UN TIP Protocol, which would send a strong signal of Nepal’s continued commitment to fighting human trafficking. The UN TIP Protocol – also known as one of the Palermo Protocols – has already been ratified by 173 countries.
The US Embassy in Kathmandu is committed to continue its support to Nepal government and people of Nepal in their efforts to combat trafficking in persons, the statement further reads.

US gives $100,000 for restoration of Hindu temple in Nepal

The US has provided Nepal a financial assistance of $100,000 for the restoration of a 16th century Hindu temple, which was badly damaged in the 2015 devastating earthquake that jolted the Himalayan republic.
The US Embassy in Kathmandu, through the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), provided the amount to the Kathmandu Valley Preservation Trust (KVPT) for the restoration of the historic Char Narayan temple.
"Built in 1566, the temple demonstrates a significant and highly-developed expression of Newari architecture,” according to a statement issued by the embassy.
"Our work through the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation serves as a symbol of the strong, vibrant partnership between our nations, as well as our respect for Nepal’s diverse and rich heritage,” Ambassador Teplitz said, adding, "As we celebrate the 70th year of diplomatic relations between our two countries, I am pleased to inaugurate the restoration work on Char Narayan as a tangible symbol of our mutual friendship."
Teplitz and director general of the Department of Archaeology Bhesh Narayan Dahal jointly inaugurated the restoration of the temple at a ceremony in Patan Durbar Square in the capital Kathmandu.
Combined with other donors, the funding will support the seismic strengthening and restoration of the Malla-era temple belonging to Lord Vishnu. The restoration work is expected to be completed within two years.
Nepal was hit by a massive 7.8 magnitude devastating earthquake in April 2015 that left nearly 9,000 people dead and as many as 22,000 injured.
According to a UN report, more than 300,000 houses were damaged in the earthquake.

2019 DV Programme opens

The application period for the 2019 Diversity Visa (DV) programme opens on October 3 (9:45 pm nepal time) and closes on November 7 (10:45 pm Nepal time).
The American Embassy in Kathmandu has said that there is no fee to enter the DV lottery.
Likewise, the Embassy has also recommended against using a consultant to assist with application. "One can consider using a family member, friend or other trusted person, if one need assistance," it said, adding that no matter, who provides assistance, one is solely responsible for one's own application.
One has to apply online as entries for the 2019 Diversity Visa lottery must use the electronic Diversity Visa entry form (E-DV) during the registration period.
"When registering, one must list one's spouse and all of unmarried children under the age of 21 at the time of application," it said, suggesting that submissions without the inclusion of family members will make entry invalid. "A person can submit one application only."
Likewise, one has to submit a recent photo and the entries submitted with the same photo from the last DV year will be disqualified.
After submitting, the DV form, one has to print and save confirmation number as this number is the only way to check status on or after May 1, 2018 to check the result.
The Embassy has also reminded that even one is selected as a DV winner, it does not guarantee that one will receive a visa.