President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday called upon all stakeholders, including the business community and industrialists, to uphold the dignity and protection of the country’s labour force, Radio Pakistan reported.
In their separate messages on International Labour Day, they said that a nation that protects its workers protects its future, adding that labour empowerment is the pathway to lasting national strength. President Zardari said Pakistan remains committed to maintaining international labour standards and promoting fundamental rights at work, including fair wages, social protection, the elimination of forced and child labour, and non-discrimination.
In his message, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan’s labour force, both at home and abroad, reflects the country’s national capability, industriousness, and professional excellence. He said national institutions, including the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits 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.