Islamabad: Pakistan has marked a significant milestone with the conclusion of the International Labour and Environmental Standards Application in Pakistan’s SMEs Project (ILES), aimed at bolstering adherence to international labour and environmental standards. Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, highlighted the project’s achievements in a speech at the closing ceremony attended by key international and national dignitaries.

According to a statement by Press Information Department, the ILES project, which received crucial funding from the European Union, has strengthened the capacity of various stakeholders to promote and enforce labour rights across the country. The initiative has directly benefited numerous enterprises and institutions, enhancing Pakistan’s alignment with Sustainable Development Goals and trade agreements with the European Union.

Minister Hussain expressed gratitude to the European Union, International Labour Organization (ILO), and WWF-Pakistan for their support and guidance. He emphasized the project’s role in advancing sustainable practices and economic development. He also announced future initiatives, including accelerating the ratification of international labour standards and supporting provincial labour departments.

The ILES project has left a lasting impact by fostering a collaborative community dedicated to labour and environmental standards. Platforms like the Provincial and Federal Tripartite Consultation Committees will continue to advance social dialogue and address labour issues. The event concluded with acknowledgments to all stakeholders for their commitment to Pakistan’s developmental goals.