ISLAMABAD: As Pakistan joined the global community in observing International Labour Day on Thursday, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the country’s workforce while underlining the urgent need for skill development to meet the demands of the evolving global economy.
In their separate messages, both leaders highlighted the invaluable contributions of workers to Pakistan’s development and reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding labour rights, improving working conditions, and creating new opportunities for the country's youth through vocational training.
President Zardari acknowledged the struggles and sacrifices of labourers throughout history, calling them the backbone of the nation’s economy. “In today’s rapidly changing world, the key to securing a brighter future for our youth and workers lies in their skill development,” he stated. The president called on all sectors of society—governments, businesses, educational institutions, and civil society—to work together in building a comprehensive ecosystem that supports continuous learning and adaptation among the workforce.
He stressed the importance of recognizing labour not only as a contributor to productivity but as a cornerstone of national progress. “Our workers are our pride, and we owe our national development to their hard work and contributions,” he said. The president further emphasized that a just and inclusive labour ecosystem can only be achieved through collaboration between employers, trade unions, and policymakers.
“This day reminds us of the historic struggle waged by workers for their rights and dignity. Let us honour our workers through meaningful policies, inclusive development, and a culture that respects labour in all its forms,” he added.
Echoing the president’s sentiments, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring safe, healthy, and dignified working conditions for all labourers. He described workers as the “driving force behind our nation’s growth and resilience,” and emphasized the alignment of Pakistan’s labour laws with international standards, particularly those set by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
The prime minister highlighted a number of reforms undertaken by the government to enhance worker protection. These include the ratification of key international labour conventions and the development of Pakistan’s first-ever National Occupational Safety and Health Profile. “These measures ensure safer and healthier workplaces for all Pakistani workers,” he noted.
PM Shehbaz also discussed expanding the reach of critical welfare programs such as the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) and the Workers Welfare Fund (WWF), aiming to ensure equitable benefits for workers across all sectors.
A major focus of his message was on the role of skill development in economic empowerment. He praised the efforts of the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) and the Technical Education and Vocational Training Authorities (TEVTAs), especially in equipping youth and women with demand-driven training.
“Through digitisation and labour law reforms, we are building a future where every worker has access to dignity, safety, and opportunity,” he said, urging all stakeholders to unite in fostering a labour-friendly culture and advancing decent work for all.
