President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) Anjan Shrestha has said that the government should involve the private sector not only as a 'witness' but also as an active partner while formulating laws and amending policies.

President Shrestha expressed this view in a discussion with industrialists and businessmen organized at the Ministry of Youth, Labor and Employment on Thursday. He complained that the private sector is not given enough time for homework while amending any act or law. President Shrestha said that the situation of Nepal being dependent on foreign countries for both employment and consumption is unfortunate.

Stating that although 500,000 to 600,000 people enter the labor market every year, the government and private sectors have been able to provide only a limited number of jobs, he added, 'Every day, about 2,500 to 3,000 youth are going for foreign employment. Domestic industries are becoming like 'training centers' to produce skilled manpower.'

Although the government seems to be working with the private sector in mind, in reality it is only being kept as a witness, he said. 'The issue of the Companies Act has come up now. It has been said that it is needed within seven days, we are discussing it. We were also present, but our role was only that of a witness. When there is a situation where suggestions need to be made within two to three days, sometimes there is pressure that we need it within one to two days, the minister has asked us to complete it anyway,' he said, 'This trend must be stopped now. At least, if any act needs to be amended, a month's time should be given for it.'