Kathmandu: Minister for Finance Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat expressed concerns that the government's efforts for economic reform were being obstructed by disgruntled parties. He stated that these parties were resistant to cooperation due to their dissatisfaction with the policy and structural changes initiated during the second phase of economic reform.

Minister Mahat congratulated the newly elected executive committee of the Social Economic Journalists' Network (SEJON) during an event. He reiterated that the real challenge lay in implementing policy reforms and programs outlined in the budget.

He explained that the disgruntled parties referred to those who feared the discontinuation of benefits and privileges under the new policy and structural reforms. The government had introduced significant plans in the current fiscal year, including reducing current and general expenses, eliminating redundant processes, promoting good governance, and boosting capital expenditures.

Despite acknowledging that the national economy was experiencing difficulties, Minister Mahat believed it was moving in the right direction. He expressed concerns about the increasing outflow of Nepali labor force and emphasized the need to convince the younger generation of the opportunities available within Nepal.

The Finance Minister also discussed the challenges of investment, liquidity, and investor confidence, emphasizing the importance of positive discourse to stimulate investments in Nepal's economy. He pointed out that the Nepal Rastra Bank had introduced a flexible monetary policy to revive the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic but cautioned against excessive and indiscriminate lending practices.

Minister Mahat highlighted the need for an informed and balanced approach to foreign employment, stressing that sending the younger generation abroad without adequate opportunities in Nepal was not a sustainable solution.