The private sector has urged the government to allow it to operate freely, arguing this is essential to achieve the country’s goal of economic prosperity. President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), Chandra Prasad Dhakal, said the private sector must be empowered with the freedom to function without unnecessary restrictions if Nepal is to make meaningful economic progress.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the 59th Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) on Thursday, Dhakal emphasized that creating a conducive environment for private enterprise should be the government’s top priority.
“The first priority should be to allow the private sector to work freely to fulfill the government’s goal of prosperity,” he said. “Unless we create decent and high-wage employment opportunities within the country, we cannot turn despair into hope. The current frustration among the public stems from the absence of such opportunities.”
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, addressing the same event, underscored the importance of government-private sector collaboration. He said national goals for development and prosperity could only be met through such partnerships.
“The collaboration between the government and the private sector is moving forward as a model. Together, we must build our country and accelerate development,” said PM Oli. “The government is fully ready to support the private sector, which is showing growing confidence. We should also take pride in promoting indigenous goods.”
He added that the present government was formed to ensure stability, good governance, and development, and that it is working to strengthen the system to enhance productivity. Oli also mentioned that policies and laws are being drafted based on input from the private sector.
On the occasion, entrepreneurs from various sectors and the best-performing FNCCI provincial and district committees were honored for their contributions, including high tax payments.
Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba said that economic progress is only possible through the active participation of the private sector. She said the government is focused on building large infrastructure despite resource limitations and is working to remove political instability, which has been an obstacle to economic progress.
“We may have faced a shortfall in foreign aid, but we must not lose confidence,” she said. “A favorable climate for both domestic and foreign investment is essential. Without good governance and private sector involvement, prosperity cannot be realized.”
Industry, Commerce and Supplies Minister Damodar Bhandari shared that the government is continuing with policy reforms to improve the investment climate. He said efforts are underway to modernize investment-related laws, enhance single-point services, and attract foreign investment.
Also present at the event were Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Labour Minister Sharat Singh, senior government officials, and leaders from the private sector. – With inputs from RSS
