July 17: Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Poudel expressed confidence that the country's economic challenges will be resolved with the formation of a stable government. He attributed these challenges largely to political instability.
In a meeting with representatives of the Nepal Bankers' Association on Tuesday, Poudel emphasized the government's determination to address issues across all sectors.
He urged bankers to convey a positive message to the market, highlighting the government's focus on overcoming the country's economic difficulties.
"Global factors and some internal reasons have contributed to the economic slowdown, but political instability is the main cause," Poudel stated. "However, we now have a strong and stable government."
Poudel acknowledged the public and private sector's frustrations, identifying them as a major challenge. He assured bankers that the government would provide support to all sectors and indicated a willingness to implement policy interventions if necessary for economic reform.
Poudel also mentioned that the central bank would soon introduce a prudent monetary policy. While acknowledging the autonomy of the Nepal Rastra Bank, Poudel expressed confidence that it would address the legitimate demands of the banking sector.
Regarding the issue of overdue payments to construction entrepreneurs, Poudel promised to take a right decision soon after a thorough review.