ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday emphasized the need for enhanced support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) in facilitating the international certification and professional training of Pakistani skilled workers, aiming to align them with global labor market standards.
The prime minister made these remarks during a meeting with ILO Director General Gilbert F Houngbo, who visited Islamabad with his delegation. The discussion focused on strengthening cooperation between Pakistan and the ILO to improve opportunities for productive employment, particularly for the country’s skilled workforce and youth.
Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the welfare, protection, and professional development of its labor force in accordance with international agreements. He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to boost industrial growth, productivity, and the competitiveness of the labor market through initiatives led by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA).
The prime minister suggested that closer collaboration and constructive engagement with the ILO could further enhance SMEDA’s programs and contribute to the overall development of Pakistan’s labor sector.
In response, ILO Director General Houngbo expressed gratitude for the meeting and conveyed his eagerness to support Pakistan in protecting and advancing its labor force. He praised the effective coordination between the ILO and the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to working with the government, employers, and workers for cohesive labor and industrial development.
The meeting was also attended by Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi, Acting Foreign Secretary Nabeel Munir, President of the Employers Foundation of Pakistan Majyd Aziz, Deputy Member (Workers) of the ILO Governing Body Muhammad Saad, and other senior officials.
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