Kathmandu: Minister of Finance Dr Rameshwar Khanal has said that wealth created by the private sector does not belong to investors alone, but is a national asset.
Speaking at a dialogue programme titled “Collaboration for Peace, Stability and Prosperity” organised by the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) on Wednesday, Khanal said that any damage to private-sector assets ultimately amounts to a loss for the state.
“The wealth created by the private sector is not just the property of investors; it is the nation’s wealth. When it is damaged, the state suffers,” Khanal said. “The profits earned by the private sector are also distributed across society. This has been acknowledged by everyone. Yet, in every movement or protest, the private sector ends up being targeted.”
He stressed that citizens, the government, and the private sector must stand together on this issue.
Khanal noted that several economic indicators are currently positive, including low inflation, adequate liquidity, low interest rates, and strong foreign exchange reserves. “However, investment growth remains extremely weak,” he said. “Even though the private sector says it will rise again from the ashes, confidence has not yet fully returned.”
He said more work is needed to restore confidence and that the government is making efforts in that direction.
Referring to the damage suffered by the private sector during the Gen Z protests on September 8 and 9, Khanal said the government has held repeated discussions on the issue. He added that the private sector has also consistently expressed its commitment to rebuild and move forward.
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