Kathmandu, Aug 27: Nepal and Oman have reached an understanding to sign a labor agreement aimed at increasing the number of Nepali workers employed in Oman. The agreement was discussed today during a bilateral meeting between Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, and Oman’s visiting Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi.

According to the secretariat of Foreign Minister Dr. Rana, the meeting covered a range of issues, including connectivity, labor, investment, tourism, diplomatic exchanges, cooperation, and support, all focusing on matters of mutual interest and benefit.

During the discussions, Dr. Rana urged the Omani side to consider resuming flights from Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) in Bhairahawa, highlighting that the Nepalese government is offering additional facilities for airlines that initiate operations from GBIA.

Dr. Rana noted that preparations are underway to formalize agreements between the two nations in the areas of labor, health, tourism, and foreign affairs. The meeting also addressed concerns related to the rights and welfare of Nepali migrant workers in Oman, emphasizing the need to safeguard their interests.

Nepal took the opportunity to encourage Oman to invest in its tourism sector, citing the country’s rich natural beauty, cultural heritage, and significant potential for tourism development. Additionally, Dr. Rana invited the Omani government to consider investing in Nepal’s hydropower sector, which offers substantial opportunities for mutual growth and cooperation.

The prospective labor agreement is expected to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Nepal and Oman, providing new employment opportunities for Nepali workers while fostering closer economic ties between the two countries