The Himalayan Times: Lebanon assures rights of Nepalese workers

Original post - last updated : 2010-06-16 2:38 PM

KATHMANDU: Minister for Labour and Transport Management Mohomad Aftab Alam held a meeting with his counterpart Minister for Labour of Lebanon Harb Boutros on the sidelines of the 99th International Labour Conference in Geneva on Wednesday.

The duo talked about the bilateral matters regarding labour and migration related to matters of mutual interest in the meeting.

Boutros expressed concern over the problems created through irregular channels of migration. He insisted that considering the significant number of migrant workers from Nepal working in Lebanon, the two governments need to establish a regular channel of communication.

The Minister of Lebanon further assured that his government is committed to ensure necessary protection to migrant workers and their rights, including rights to health. On the part of the sending country, it should be ensured that the workers are physically and mentally fit before their departure.

Minister of Labour of Nepal referred to friendly bilateral relations between the two countries and stated that Lebanon has remained a destination of employment
for Nepalese workers including women. Along with growing numbers, problems have emerged and there have been reports of exploitation and abuses, he added.

Minister of Lebanon agreed with the need to finalise a bilateral agreement at the earliest. The Nepalese side assured that a draft proposal of the MoU will be prepared at the earliest and communicated to the Lebanese side.

H.E. Dr. Dinesh Bhattarai, Ambassador/Permanent Representative of Nepal to United Nations and other International Organisations, Dinesh Hari Adhikari, Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Transport Management, Purna Chandra Bhattarai, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and embassy officials accompanied Alam for the meeting.