Chief secretary highlights role of private sector in nation building

Kathmandu, October 14

Chief Secretary Som Lal Subedi has said that the country’s economic development will depend on the performance of the private sector and urged private sector players to play an effective role in nation building.

The chief secretary was speaking at a programme organised by Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC) to mark the 63rd Chamber Day today.

Established 62 years ago, NCC is one of the oldest private sector organisations in the country. The chamber had organised a flag hoisting ceremony at the Chamber Building to mark the Chamber Day.

“The prolonged protest in the Tarai since the last two months has hit the country’s economy badly,” a statement issued by NCC quoted Subedi as saying. “The country has been facing acute shortage of essential commodities like fuel and medicines, among others, due to the prolonged protest in the Tarai region and the government has been seeking options to smoothen the supply in the country.”

Subedi also stressed on the need for export promotion and investment-friendly environment to lead the country towards higher growth trajectory.

Commerce Secretary Naindra Prasad Upadhyay opined that the country’s burgeoning trade deficit can be minimised by curbing import of luxury items and through efficient use of commodities like fuel. He also informed that his ministry is preparing to bring immediate, short-term and long-term plans for smooth supply of fuel and other essential commodities.

NCC President Rajesh Kazi Shrestha stressed on the need for flexible Labour Act, abundant supply of power and investment security to attract investors. He also requested the government to ease the supply of essential commodities by resolving the disputes that surfaced in the Tarai during the drafting of the constitution and became more critical after its promulgation.