KATHMANDU: Ambassador Park Tae-Young of the Republic of South Korea to Nepal has announced plans to expand the recruitment of Nepali workers to include the forestry and service sectors, alongside the existing sectors of agriculture and manufacturing. Stressing Nepal's importance as a priority partner country, Ambassador Park highlighted the significant contributions of Nepali workers to the Korean economy, with approximately 20,000 Nepalis employed in Korea last year alone, constituting about 20 percent of the total migrant workforce.

Under the Employment Permit System (EPS), which facilitates the employment of foreign workers in Korea, Nepalis have found opportunities in various sectors such as agriculture, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. The decision to include Nepalis in the service sector reflects the recognition of their valuable contributions and the desire to further enhance bilateral relations between the two countries. Additionally, Ambassador Park emphasized the transparent and mutually beneficial nature of the government-to-government (G2G) arrangement for sending workers, which ensures attractive salaries and facilities for workers, as well as support programs for their reintegration upon returning to Nepal.

Highlighting the positive impact of Nepali workers on both the Korean economy and people-to-people relations, Ambassador Park underscored the potential for further collaboration between Nepal and Korea. He emphasized the importance of investment security agreements and the elimination of double taxation to attract more Korean investment in Nepal. Furthermore, plans are underway to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Nepal-Korea relations through various programs and high-level visits between the two countries.

The expansion of opportunities for Nepali workers in Korea, along with initiatives to support Nepal's development endeavors, reflects the commitment of both nations to strengthen their partnership and promote mutual prosperity. With the demand for workers in Korea expected to continue rising, Ambassador Park reiterated Korea's willingness to support Nepal's economic development and enhance bilateral ties for the benefit of both nations.