Islamabad: Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, has urged for enhanced labour protection for Pakistan’s significant freelance and digital workforce. During a meeting with International Labour Organization (ILO) Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo, the Minister emphasized the importance of safe, fair, and dignified migration as a priority for Pakistan and reiterated the country’s commitment to cooperating with the ILO on fair recruitment and worker protection.

According to Radio Pakistan, both parties discussed the need to further enhance cooperation in promoting employment, skill development, and safeguarding workers’ rights. Chaudhry Salik Hussain highlighted the determination of Pakistan to improve opportunities for its workers in the global market, while Gilbert F. Houngbo expressed his commitment to supporting these efforts.

The meeting also resulted in an agreement to boost efforts aimed at equipping Pakistan’s workforce with skills that meet international standards and align with modern industry requirements. The ILO assured continued support for Pakistan in developing its workforce’s skills and enhancing opportunities in the global labour market.

The occasion included the distribution of cheques to workers’ representatives and the presentation of a commemorative shield and gifts to the ILO Director-General. The event was attended by Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Muhammad Awn Chaudhry, Federal Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry, Secretary Workers Welfare Fund Zulfiqar Ahmed, along with representatives from workers’ unions and employers’ organizations.