AIN pays courtesy visit to the Chief Secretary Mr. Somlal Subedi lead by AIN Chairperson Dr. Prabin Manandhar, Vice Chair Liz Satow, SC Member Mona Sherpa Secretariat staff Lucky Gurung and Reshma Shrestha. During the meeting AIN shared few key concerns regarding the overlapping responsibility of NRA & SWC, delays in implementation of EQ projects, lengthy SWC process, dual approvals from NRA & SWC; not adhering to one door policy. Inconsistency in Expat visa approval and renewal process and Safety & Security concerns of INGOs.
Chief Secretary stated that Department of Labor has no legitimacy to deny visa once it is approved by SWC and PAFC but it just facilitates the visa process. Regarding safety & security concerns, he advised sharing the matter with the Home Ministry ( MOHA) Secretary and NRA since it is the umbrella body. He also advised sharing the issue with the Donor’s group and release collective message through media so that AIN can draw the attention of international arena as well. The Chief Secretary also assured that he will talk to the high authorities at NRA and MOHA for the same.