PM Reaffirms Workers' Rights in Talks With ILO Chief

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman (left) and International Labour Organization (ILO) Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday reaffirmed his government's commitment to protecting workers' rights, improving workplace safety and implementing international labour standards during a meeting with International Labour Organization (ILO) Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo at the Prime Minister's Office.

According to a press release from the Prime Minister's Press Wing, the two sides discussed ongoing labour sector reforms, workers' welfare and ways to deepen cooperation between Bangladesh and the ILO.

The Prime Minister reiterated his government's commitment to ensuring a worker-friendly, safe and sustainable working environment, while Houngbo said Bangladesh's progress in labour sector reforms and implementation of international labour standards has received positive recognition globally.

The ILO chief reaffirmed the organisation's readiness to expand cooperation with Bangladesh to support the development of the country's labour sector.

The discussions covered a wide range of issues, including strengthening social protection for workers, enhancing skills development, creating more employment opportunities and building a workforce capable of meeting the demands of the evolving global labour market.

Both sides also reviewed progress in Bangladesh's ready-made garment sector, workplace safety, development of the informal labour market and implementation of international labour standards.

They stressed the importance of closer collaboration between the government and the ILO to advance ongoing labour reforms.

The meeting also focused on the welfare of migrant workers, promotion of safe and orderly migration and enhanced cooperation in improving the skills of overseas-bound workers.

Congratulating Tarique Rahman on assuming office, Houngbo said the international community's confidence in Bangladesh had strengthened following the formation of a government elected through direct public voting.

He also congratulated Bangladesh on the election of Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman as President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, describing it as recognition of the country's growing diplomatic standing and international credibility.

Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury, Prime Minister's Adviser on Labour and Employment Mahadi Amin, Labour and Employment Secretary Md Abdur Rahman Tarafdar, Director General (United Nations) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Md Kamruzzaman, ILO Country Director in Bangladesh Max Tuñón and Senior Adviser to the ILO Director-General Hitomi Nakagome attended the meeting.