Islamabad:Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain has emphasized the need for adequate labour protection for Pakistan's significant freelance and digital workforce during a meeting with International Labour Organization (ILO) Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo.

According to Radio Pakistan, the minister highlighted safe, fair, and dignified migration as key priorities for the country. He affirmed Pakistan's ongoing collaboration with the ILO in areas such as fair recruitment, labour migration, and worker protection. Furthermore, he expressed a desire to strengthen cooperation with the ILO to promote employment, develop skills, and protect workers' rights.

Gilbert F. Houngbo reiterated his commitment to enhancing opportunities for Pakistani workers in the global labour market and ensuring their protection and welfare. Both parties agreed to increase efforts to align Pakistan's workforce skills with international standards through appropriate training programs. The ILO assured continued support in these areas to enhance opportunities for Pakistani workers globally.

During the meeting, Chaudhry Salik Hussain and Gilbert F. Houngbo distributed cheques to representatives of workers. Additionally, Hussain presented a commemorative shield and gifts to Houngbo.

The meeting was also 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, and representatives from workers' unions and employers' organizations.