Geneva: Director General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, has lauded Pakistan's role in fulfilling its international commitments to the welfare and social protection of workers, as well as its efforts toward a rapid and safe transition for migrant workers.
According to Radio Pakistan, the appreciation was expressed during a meeting with the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, on the sidelines of the International Labour Conference in Geneva. Chaudhry Salik Hussain apprised the DG-ILO of the steps taken by the government of Pakistan in line with its international commitments for the welfare, social protection, and occupational safety and health of workers.
The Minister emphasized that his government is dedicated to the betterment of workers, having implemented measures to encourage legal migration, ensuring safety and job security. He highlighted that Pakistan is the only country in the region to have ratified three conventions in a short span of time, showcasing its commitment and resolve.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain further informed the Director General that Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) for skilled and semi-skilled workforce are being signed or are in process with multiple countries. The Minister assured that the migrating workforce is trained according to the customs, traditions, basic language, and work ethics of the destination country to become a productive and contributing human resource.
Moreover, the Minister requested enhanced technical and donor assistance for the ratification of Convention C-176, related to the safety and health of mine workers. He also expressed gratitude for the role of the ILO's Country Office in providing assistance and continued support to his Ministry.
In his remarks, the Director-General praised Pakistan for being the only country to ratify three ILO conventions this year. The Minister was accompanied by the Permanent Representative of Pakistan's Mission at Geneva, Bilal Ahmad, Secretary Workers Welfare Fund Zulfiqar Ahmad, Joint Secretary of MOPHRD, and Workers Delegate Mr. Zahoor Awan.