Director General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, applauded the nation’s efforts in fulfilling its international commitments towards the welfare and social protection of its workforce.

This commendation came during a meeting with Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Pakistan’s Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, held on the fringes of the International Labour Conference in Geneva.

The minister provided an overview of the initiatives undertaken by the Pakistani government to enhance worker well-being, emphasizing the importance of legal migration with a focus on safety and job security. He noted that Pakistan stands out in the region for its proactive approach, having ratified three ILO conventions in a relatively short period.

Chaudhry Salik Hussain informed the ILO chief about ongoing efforts to forge agreements for skilled and semi-skilled labor with various countries, ensuring that Pakistani workers are well-prepared for international placements. These workers are trained in the customs, traditions, languages, and work ethics of their destination countries, thereby ensuring they become valuable assets abroad.

The minister also emphasized the need for increased technical and donor assistance to facilitate the ratification of convention C-176, focused on the safety and health of mine workers. During the discussions, he acknowledged the ILO Country Office’s vital role in supporting Pakistan’s labor initiatives.

Director General Houngbo expressed admiration for Pakistan being the only country to have ratified three ILO conventions this year, underscoring the country’s commitment to advancing labor rights and protections on a global scale.