Islamabad: Country Director of International Labour Organisation (ILO) Mr. Geir Thomas Tonstol paid courtesy visit to Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Jawad Sohrab Malik. During meeting, fruitful discussion took place on matters of mutual interest.

Malik conveyed Pakistan’s enduring commitment as vital member of ILO and longstanding member of its Governing Body for past three decades. Geir T. Tonstole provided comprehensive briefing to Malik on ILO’s mandate and activities within Pakistan. He emphasised key priorities outlined in recently signed fourth Decent Work Country Programme in May 2023.

He stated that ILO through its Decent Work Agenda is committed to advocating for needs of people of Pakistan and advancing social justice for all.

During meeting, Malik expressed his desire for ILO to concentrate on manpower export through skill development, aligning with latest criteria adopted by major host countries. Moreover, he requested ILO to formulate an action plan and implementation framework with well-defined goals and objectives, especially aimed at enhancing well-being of workers and facilitating manpower export.

To optimise benefits of ILO’s presence in Pakistan, Malik assured Ministry’s full support for its planned initiatives. He emphasised that matters concerning Skill Passport initiative should be overseen by National Database and Registration Authority. Furthermore, Malik underscored Pakistan’s keen interest in participating in Global Accelerator Program of ILO, recognising its potential to create decent job opportunities in developing economies like Pakistan.

Country Director discussed priority areas with SAPM to promote decent work for Pakistan workforce and ensure safe and fair labour migration. He informed SAPM that delegation of migration experts is scheduled to visit Pakistan in upcoming month, which is expected to provide substantial support to this cause.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 05 2023

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