Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud, during a recent meeting with his Portuguese counterpart, João Gomes Cravinho, has requested a reconsideration of Portugal's policies regarding Nepali migrants. The meeting, held in Lisbon on November 27th, focused on addressing the challenges faced by Nepalis in Portugal, including issues related to work permits and residency status. Minister Khanal emphasized the significant contributions of the Nepali diaspora to Portugal's economy and society, seeking a more favorable and streamlined process for their recognition and integration.
Reports from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicate that the discussions specifically addressed the complexities surrounding the Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) system in Portugal. Many Nepalis have faced difficulties securing and renewing their TRPs, largely due to bureaucratic hurdles and delays in processing applications. Minister Khanal highlighted these difficulties, conveying that the current conditions are creating hardships for the Nepali community and advocating for changes that will provide greater stability and legal protection.
During the meeting, Minister Khanal underscored the cultural and economic ties between Nepal and Portugal, emphasizing the desire to strengthen bilateral relations in areas beyond migration. He expressed Nepal’s interest in expanding cooperation in sectors such as tourism, trade, and investment. Both Ministers agreed to continue discussions and explore concrete steps towards resolving the mentioned issues. This commitment reflects a shared understanding of the importance of addressing the challenges faced by Nepali migrants constructively.
In response, Minister Cravinho acknowledged the concerns raised by the Nepali side. He assured that the Portuguese government is committed to finding solutions that respect both the rights of migrants and the country's immigration regulations. The Portuguese government is also actively working to streamline immigration processes and ensure fairness in application evaluations. Specific plans for policy adjustments were not immediately disclosed. Nevertheless, both ministers noted the importance of ongoing communication and cooperation to ensure the protection and well-being of Nepalis in Portugal.
The Nepali Embassy in Lisbon has been actively monitoring the situation and providing necessary support to Nepali migrants. They are advising those facing problems to seek legal counsel and register their cases with the embassy. This proactive approach aims to assist the community and act as a resource to navigate the complex challenges faced by some Nepalis living in Portugal. The embassy stressed that it is committed to working with the Portuguese government and Nepali community to find sustainable solutions to the problems.
This initiative by Foreign Minister Khanal holds significant importance for the Nepali diaspora in Portugal. Addressing the challenges related to work permits and residency status directly impacts the economic security and overall well-being of the community. It provides reassurance of the Nepal government’s commitment to its citizens living abroad. Successful resolution of the issues will not only improve the immediate circumstances of the Nepali community but could potentially pave the way for a more stable and integrated future in Portugal.
