Nepal to strengthen ties with Bahrain

Nepal is all set to strengthen ties with Bahrain as it intends to promote tourism, investment and other areas. This comes as Nepal set up its embassy in Juffair recently and also appointed a diplomat in more than three decades. It is the first time since 1977 when Nepal started bilateral relations with Bahrain that the Asian country will have a diplomatic presence here. " We have always had a great relationship with Bahrain and now the ties are more stronger as we have a full fledged embassy to help our nationals in Bahrain," said newly appointed ambassador Dr Durga Bahadur Subedi. He said the Nepali community has contributed to Bahrain’s development and have stayed happily without much issues. "I am keen to interact with diplomats here and get their feedback which will help me understand this beautiful country further." " There are some areas I would like to work for the welfare of Nepalese workers, such as increasing their wages, social insurance for domestic workers and other labour related issues." Dr Subedi said he wanted to promote Nepal as a tourist destination among Bahraini’s especially adventure tourism as it is home to the Mount Everest, the highest mountain peak in the world. The diplomat explained that Nepali Club for years was responsible for co-ordination with embassy officials in Saudi Arabia for consular services and documentations, when there was no diplomatic mission in Bahrain. " With the establishment of the Nepalese Embassy in Bahrain from now on all the consular and other services will be provided and a labour officer is expected to join next month to handle labour issues." The diplomat said they will hold an official reception on January 14 that will be attended by ministers, senior government officials, diplomats and other dignitaries. Dr Subedi earlier this week met with Labour Market Regulatory Authority(LMRA) chief executive Ausamah Al Absi and discussed on enhancing co-operation at different levels including between the Labour Ministry and manpower agencies in Nepal. There are over 16,500 Nepalese workers in Bahrain.