Nepali Embassy in Saudi Arabia denounces media report

KATHMANDU: The Embassy of Nepal in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has denounced a recent media report alleging that the Embassy charged fees from employers’ companies for document verification.

In a press statement, the Embassy expressed its serious concern regarding the matter and made it clear that no complaints about such purported irregularities have been lodged with the Mission, as claimed in the media.

The Embassy refuted the credibility of the news article claiming the involvement of Ambassador Nawaraj Subedi, Deputy Chief of Mission Dr Damaru Bhallav Paudel, and Second Secretary Tikaram Upadhayay in such affairs.

The Embassy clarified that during the current online demand paper attestation process, documents are authenticated by the ambassador/deputy chief of mission, following oversight by the operator, document verification officer and labor counselor.

The Embassy affirmed that no additional fees are charged for this service, apart from the government-determined revenue. Despite facing challenges such as adverse climate conditions, vast territory, and a unique environment, the Embassy said it is committed to serving the service-seekers to the best of its abilities within limited resources.

According to the Embassy, it holds online interactions with relevant authorities, including the Nepal Association of Foreign Employment Agencies and the Department of Foreign Employment, to address issues promptly, including document attestations, rescue operations, and repatriation efforts.