President Zardari, PM Shehbaz call for protection of workers’ dignity on Labor Day

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday called on all stakeholders, including business and industrialists, to uphold the dignity and protection of the country’s workforce, Radio Pakistan reported.

In their separate messages on International Labor Day, they said a nation that protects its workers protects its future, adding that workforce is the path to lasting national strength.

President Zardari said Pakistan remains committed to upholding international labor standards and promoting basic rights in the workplace, including fair wages, social protection, elimination of forced and child labor and non-discrimination.

In his announcement, Prime Minister Shehbaz said that Pakistan’s workforce, both at home and abroad, reflects the country’s national capacity, industriousness and professional excellence.

He said national institutions, including the Employees’ Old Age Benefit Institution and the Workers Welfare Fund, continue to strive for the welfare of workers and their families by providing pensions, housing, education and other essential services.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said that workers are the real strength of the nation and Labor Day honors their sacrifices. He emphasized that a just Pakistan requires empowerment of workers, protection of their rights and ensuring welfare, reaffirming PPP’s commitment to labor rights.

PPP Women’s Wing President Faryal Talpur paid tribute to the workers and called their sacrifices the foundation of national development. She said the rights and dignity of workers must be protected, adding that the PPP remains committed to fair wages, social protection and empowerment under its leadership.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said the government is improving the living standards of workers through pro-labour policies and legal protection. He emphasized the strict implementation of the minimum wage legislation and reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of workers.

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Sindh Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah said workers are the backbone of development and their welfare is a top priority. He highlighted increased minimum wages, enforcement of labor laws, and the provision of health and financial support.

Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said that laborers are the backbone of society and deserve recognition for their sacrifices. He highlighted government measures including higher wages, labor law enforcement and welfare initiatives for workers and farmers.

PPP Central Spokesperson Shazia Marri said workers are the true drivers of progress and must be empowered for a just society. She reiterated that the PPP stands for economic justice, equal opportunities and continued support for labor rights.