President Zardari, PM Shehbaz call for protection of workers’ dignity on Labour Day

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday called upon all stakeholders, including the business community and industrialists, to uphold the dignity and protection of the country’s labour force, Radio Pakistan reported.

In their separate messages on International Labour Day, they said that a nation that protects its workers protects its future, adding that labour empowerment is the pathway to lasting national strength.

President Zardari said Pakistan remains committed to maintaining international labour standards and promoting fundamental rights at work, including fair wages, social protection, the elimination of forced and child labour, and non-discrimination.

In his message, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan’s labour force, both at home and abroad, reflects the country’s national capability, industriousness, and professional excellence.

He said national institutions, including the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution and the Workers Welfare Fund, continue to strive for the welfare of workers and their families by providing pensions, housing, education, and other essential services.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said workers are the nation’s real strength and Labour Day honours their sacrifices. He stressed that a just Pakistan requires empowering workers, protecting their rights and ensuring welfare, reaffirming the PPP’s commitment to labour rights.

PPP Women’s Wing President Faryal Talpur paid tribute to workers, calling their sacrifices the foundation of national development. She said workers’ rights and dignity must be protected, adding the PPP remains committed to fair wages, social protection and empowerment under its leadership.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said the government is improving workers’ living standards through pro-labour policies and legal protections. He stressed the strict implementation of minimum wage laws and reaffirmed his commitment to workers’ welfare.

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Sindh Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah said workers are the backbone of development and their welfare is a top priority. He highlighted increased minimum wages, enforcement of labour laws and provision of health and financial support.

Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said workers are the backbone of society and deserve recognition for their sacrifices. He highlighted government measures, including higher wages, labour law enforcement and welfare initiatives for workers and farmers.

PPP central spokesperson Shazia Marri said workers are the true drivers of progress and must be empowered for a just society. She reiterated that the PPP stands for economic justice, equal opportunities and continued support for labour rights.