PM Seeks Greater ILO Facilitation For Int'l Certification and Training of Pakistan's Skilled Workforce
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - October 06, 2026) Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday expressed Pakistan's appreciation for its partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), emphasizing opportunities for youth and skilled labor.
During a meeting with ILO Director General, Gilbert F. Houngbo, who visited him at the Prime Minister's Office, Sharif underlined the need for enhanced ILO support in international certification and professional training for Pakistan's workforce, aligning with global standards.
The Prime Minister highlighted government initiatives to safeguard and advance national labor, citing efforts to rejuvenate the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) for industrial growth and market competitiveness. He suggested greater collaboration with ILO could bolster SMEDA's progress.
Houngbo praised the meeting and expressed eagerness to collaborate with Pakistan for the development of its labor force. He recognized positive coordination between ILO, the Federal Ministry of Overseas Pakistani and Human Resource Development, and pledged continued support.
Attending the meeting were Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Ch. Salik Hussain, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) Syed Tariq Fatemi, Acting Foreign Secretary Nabeel Munir, President Employers' Federation of Pakistan Majyd Aziz, Deputy Member (Workers) ILO Governing Body Muhammad Saad, and senior government officials.