Boosting Nepal-Oman Ties

The world has increasingly become interdependent due to fast-paced globalisation that has broken down the physical barriers and spurred the greater mobility of people, goods, capital and technology. Today it is difficult for any country to stay isolated as such posture deprives the benefits brought by the globalisation. However, the countries with strong financial system, skilled human resources and cutting-edge technology can only benefit from the economic globalisation. Nepal, which is set to graduate to the status of developing nation, is unable to reap the fruits of economy-led globalised world in the absence of competitive export items, adequate foreign investment and sophisticated technology. Nepal is in dire need of investments that enable it to tap potentials in energy, tourism and agriculture, among others.

Of course, Nepal annually receives a large amount of remittances sent by Nepalis working in various countries, particularly in the Middle East and Malaysia. But, the earnings from remittances are not reliable as the international labour markets are prone to conflicts and pandemic. For a robust economic growth, Nepal must invest in public utilities, hydropower, infrastructure development, tourism, agriculture and industries. In order to attract investment, both domestic and foreign, the country has eased the legislative provisions. Still the flow of foreign direct investment is not encouraging. Against this backdrop, Oman has expressed its desire to invest in tourism sector while bolstering the bilateral ties in different field of mutual benefit. Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Hamad Al Busaidi has stated that his country wanted to invest in Nepal's tourism sector during his meeting to his Nepali counterpart Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba. 

Al Busaidi, who came to Nepal on a two-day visit to Nepal Tuesday, also called on President Ram Chandra Paudel and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and discussed on the matters of bilateral interests.  During a delegation level talks between Nepal and Oman, the two sides discussed air connectivity, labour-related issues, investment, trade, education, health, tourism, diplomatic exchange and all necessary forms of cooperation and coordination, according to news report of this daily. The two nations are working to sign Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) on labour, health, tourism and foreign affairs.  FM Deuba highlighted various areas of investment in Nepal such as hydropower, tourism, organic farming and ICT. Endowed with natural beauties and cultural heritage, Nepal is an ideal place for the foreign investment. However, the two sides should work together to devise a modality of bilateral investment agreement. 

It is natural for Nepal to show concern about the safety of Nepali workers in Oman that is a favourable labour destination for foreign workers because of congenial laws and working atmosphere there. Around 21,000 Nepalis are working in Oman. As Omani FM said, Nepali workers have earned reputation as hard-working and honest persons. Nonetheless, the two countries should not delay in inking the MoU on labour so that the problems related to Nepali workers as well as human-trafficking are resolved through the effective government's mechanisms. It is a matter of happiness that Omani side is positive about resuming flights to Nepal in response to Nepal's side request to conduct flights to Pokhara and Bhairahawa international airports. Oman had earlier conducted direct flights from its capital to Bhairahawha but later it discontinued. Nepal government has provided incentives to foreign airlines companies to operate their flights from these two international airports. These airports will contribute to boosting the regional and national economy if they come into operations.