The International Labor Day is being met throughout Pakistan today, in line with global memorials, to recognize the contributions of workers and increase awareness of their rights.
The day is dedicated to recognizing the hard work, dedication and victims of the workforce that play an important role in national development. It also serves to highlight the need for fair treatment, social protection and safe working conditions for all workers.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed in their separate messages Pakistan’s commitment to protection, welfare and empowerment of workers and termed them the backbone of the nation’s economic development.
President Zardari highlighted the importance of skills development for workers and young people to meet the demands of a developing job market. He called on cooperation between governments, private companies, educational institutions and civil society to create a comprehensive ecosystem for labor marketing.
The president called workers the “driving force” of the economy and paid tribute to their role in maintaining manufacture, agriculture, SMEs and the public sector. He called for meaningful political reforms, inclusive development and a culture that respects all forms of labor.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, described workers as the “real driving force” behind Pakistan’s progress and resilience. He noted that work protection is embedded in the Constitution and adapted to international obligations under ILO conventions.
The Prime Minister detailed reforms made by the government, including the ratification of central international conventions and the introduction of the National Business Safety and Health Profile. He also highlighted the expansion of welfare institutions such as Eobi and WWF together with efforts in digitization and vocational education through Navttc and Tevtas with a special focus on youth and women.
Both managers urged all stakeholders to work with promoting a safe, dignified and opportunity -rich environment for all workers.
