KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 24

Finance Minister Rameshwor Khanal has pledged to prioritize economic development and safeguard the national interest. He made the remarks at a programme organized on Wednesday, reiterating, 'The nation's interest is our foremost priority.'

The Minister called for cooperation from the private sector in combating corruption. He also announced the government's decision to dismiss employees appointed as advisors and personal secretaries in an effort to uphold austerity measures.

According to him, the private sector should not only pursue profit but also contribute to long-term transformation.

On the occasion, FNCCI President Chandra Dhakal emphasized the need for a scientific evaluation of imports and exports to ensure fair trade.

He expressed confidence that the Finance Minister would take proactive steps to make the national economy more dynamic. Dhakal further urged the Minister to implement the recommendations put forward by the High-Level Economic Reform Commission, which he himself had chaired earlier.

Meanwhile, businesspersons in Biratnagar submitted a written set of suggestions to Minister Khanal.