Kathmandu, December 1 A research-based project has been launched to discover the number of foreign workers in Nepal and their contribution to economic development of the country. The project jointly launched by the International Organisation of Migration, European Union and Our Work on International Migration is expected to be completed by the first month of 2018. Information about this was shared amidst a pogramme held here today. On the occasion, Secretary at the Ministry of Labour and Employment Ram Kumar Acharya said the project would not only provide data and information about foreign workers here but also could contribute to the country’s development. As per the estimated data, there are presently around one million foreign workers, including Indians, in the country. EU Ambassador to Nepal Renjse Teerink said the complete research-based project would come up with findings that would be helpful in the protection of rights of foreign workers. International Labour Oorganisation Nepal Representative Jose Assalino said the project aimed to carry out research on south-to-south migration is being launched in 10 countries, including Nepal. The participants of the programme said the project is one of a kind in the context of Nepal.