GENEVA: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Minister for Labour, Fazal Shakoor Khan, represented Pakistan at the 113th International Labour Conference (ILC) held in Geneva, where he addressed the global gathering and reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to promoting inclusive development, decent work, and the protection of human rights, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region.
During his address, Minister Fazal Shakoor emphasized the growing importance of multilateral cooperation in today’s interconnected world and recognized the International Labour Organization (ILO) for its key role in safeguarding workers’ rights and promoting global peace. He praised the ILO’s continued technical assistance, standard-setting efforts, and support for sustainable labour practices across the region.
Fazal Shakoor noted that Pakistan seeks deeper ILO support in strengthening its labour institutions and in implementing reforms to enhance the rights and protections of workers nationwide. He highlighted Pakistan’s recent ratification of three major international conventions concerning forced labour and labour statistics over the past year.
Looking ahead, he reaffirmed that Pakistan is committed to ratifying two more ILO conventions by the end of 2025, underscoring the country’s dedication to aligning its labour framework with international standards. He also appealed for enhanced institutional and donor support to promote employment, rights, and economic development across the Asia-Pacific.
Addressing global concerns, Minister Fazal Shakoor welcomed the ILO Director-General’s report on the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, expressing serious concern over the destruction of infrastructure, economic blockades, and restricted access to employment. He stressed that these challenges have gravely impacted Palestinian livelihoods and are in direct violation of the fundamental principles of the ILO Constitution.
The minister urged the international community to take immediate action to protect the dignity and rights of the Palestinian people. He reiterated Pakistan’s full support for all regional and global initiatives aimed at ensuring social justice, decent work, and inclusive economic growth.
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