By Our Reporter
Despite drawing criticism not only from the opposition parties but also from the key ruling coalition party, UML, the Government has managed to pass the new budget from the House of Representatives.
The Appropriation Bill 2024, presented by Finance Minister Barsaman Pun, was approved with a majority vote on Tuesday.
Before the approval of the budget, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal had furnished answers to questions raised by the lawmakers. He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of Nepalis abroad, highlighting the priority placed on rescuing and facilitating the return of Nepali citizens facing difficulties overseas.
“Rescuing Nepalis in distress abroad and ensuring their safe return is a top priority for us,” said Prime Minister Prachanda.
He also said that he was firmed that all territories east to the Kali River belong to Nepal and highlighted ongoing efforts to understand and implement the recommendations from the Nepal-India Eminent Persons Group (EPG) report.
Regarding diplomatic missions, Prime Minister Dahal affirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging these entities in the national interest. “Our diplomatic missions abroad are pivotal in advancing Nepal’s interests globally,” he said, stressing the importance of professionalism and meritocracy in ambassadorial appointments. He assured the House that evaluations would be objective and performance-based to strengthen Nepal’s diplomatic efforts effectively.
On domestic matters, the Prime Minister asserted Nepal’s sovereignty over its rivers, stating, “Nepal’s rivers are Nepal’s property, and we will utilize them for Nepal’s benefit.”
He also assured transparency and efficiency in government operations. He detailed reductions in current expenditures compared to previous years, emphasizing streamlined administrative costs and enhanced policy formulation under the federal structure.
Prime Minister Dahal underscored Nepal’s approach to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), emphasising a preference for subsidies over loans. “We will prioritise subsidies and ensure any loans adhering to favourable interest rates provided by the ADB and World Bank,” he said.
“There’s ongoing work to finalise plans for the BRI. I anticipate reaching an agreement soon to move this initiative forward,” said PM Dahal.
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