Islamabad, 1 May 2024, (GNP): On International Labour Day both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have pledged to honor the dignity of laborers, acknowledging their significant historical struggle.
Numerous public and private institutions are organizing conferences, seminars, marches, and walks to commemorate the profound sacrifices made by laborers.
In his special message to laborers in Pakistan, President Zardari recognized and praised their “remarkable” contributions to the nation’s development.
“This day serves as a reminder for all of us to safeguard labourers’ rights, and work for their social protection, fair wages, and safe working conditions,” the president said in a message.
The president praised the relentless efforts of workers, who have propelled the country’s socio-economic advancement.
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“The labourers and the working class in Pakistan are facing unprecedented challenges, such as inflation, rising cost of living, unemployment, and the adverse impacts of climate change,” a press release quoted President Zardari.
The president emphasized the importance of improving the lives of the working class by implementing actions such as ensuring fair wages, safe work environments, healthcare coverage, and access to education for their children.
“The state also has a crucial role to play in protecting the rights of workers, implementing and enforcing policies to end labour exploitation, protect their rights, and provide social support,” he observed.
President Zardari urged employers to embrace equitable wage structures, prioritize worker safety and health, and furnish essential training and protective gear to laborers in risky workplaces.
He expressed optimism that both federal and provincial authorities would contribute to safeguarding labor rights, eradicating exploitative behaviors, and instituting social security initiatives for workers.
“Let’s pledge to create a conducive environment for workers in Pakistan where they are valued and respected,” he added.
The government is dedicated to enhancing labor welfare
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s dedication to enhancing labor welfare and aligning domestic labor laws with global standards. He paid tribute to the workers’ immense sacrifices in their relentless pursuit of rights.
The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s priority in improving occupational safety and health across sectors. He highlighted the inaugural National Tripartite Labor Conference, focusing on safety and health issues.
Acknowledging the significant contributions of laborers in various fields, the Prime Minister praised their relentless efforts, which drive Pakistan’s progress.
PM Shehbaz pledged to persist in the government’s efforts to enhance working and living conditions for workers, aiming to improve their welfare through better housing, education, healthcare, and social security benefits.
Governor Tessori recognized importance of increasing minimum wages
In his message, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori hailed the historic struggle of laborers, referring to them as the “backbone” of the nation’s progress. He noted their concerns, stating that they are facing greater worries today than in the past.
“The workers are facing problems like unemployment and low wage, while famine has also deprived them of two meals a day,” he said.
Governor Tessori emphasized the necessity of significantly raising the minimum wage of workers in the budget, aiming to guarantee that they can afford two meals a day as well as education and medical care for their children.
“Industrialists and traders are requested to come forward for the welfare of the workers. The doors of the Governor’s House are open to give free ration to the poor and needy,” he maintained.
The governor highlighted that the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) will bring prosperity to the workers.
