ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Senator Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani has voiced his support for a pioneering initiative between the United States and Pakistan, aimed at eradicating bonded labor by modernizing Pakistan’s brick kiln industry. This commitment was made during a meeting with a high-level delegation led by Mr. Mike Brickley, CEO of Families Set Free (FSF).

According to Senate of Pakistan, the delegation, which included various stakeholders such as Mr. Naveed Aamir Jeeva, MNA, and Mr. Ashraf J. Mall, CEO of Pakistan Partnership Initiative (PPI), discussed the joint efforts of FSF and PPI in collaboration with the Government of Punjab. The initiative seeks to mechanize brick kilns and create sustainable employment opportunities for vulnerable communities. Mr. Brickley explained that the project combines business investment with social impact to transition from exploitative labor practices to skilled employment.

Mr. Ashraf J. Mall reported that PPI has already helped rescue and rehabilitate over 15,000 families affected by bonded labor, providing livelihood support and educational opportunities for children. Additionally, a delegation of 25 American business leaders visited Pakistan earlier this year to explore investment opportunities in the modernization of brick kilns and employment generation.

Mr. Naveed Aamir Jeeva emphasized the Pakistan Peoples Party’s dedication to the welfare of women, minorities, and marginalized communities, noting the potential for collaboration through the Benazir Income Support Programme. Dr. Rubina Feroze Bhatti highlighted the initiative’s recognition at the Pakistan-US Symposium in the United States Congress and its contribution to strengthening Pakistan-US relations, with three brick kilns already mechanized and six more undergoing modernization in Faisalabad, Sargodha, and Sheikhupura.

Chairman Senate Gillani commended the initiative and assured the delegation of his support, encouraging the expansion of the model to South Punjab. He reiterated his commitment to strengthening Pakistan-US cooperation, with a focus on promoting closer ties between Punjab and California.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to sustainable development, economic inclusion, and the elimination of bonded labor through innovation, investment, and international partnership.