Labour Day: President, PM pay tribute to workers of Pakistan, reaffirm commitment to rights and welfare

Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged all sections of society, particularly industrialists and the business sector, to ensure respect, safety and protection for the country’s workforce.

In their separate messages issued for International Labour Day, both leaders stressed that the prosperity of a nation depends on the wellbeing of its workers, saying labour empowerment remains key to long-term national development.

President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to workers across Pakistan and reiterated the government’s resolve to safeguard labour rights, guarantee fair compensation and promote respectable working environments.

He said the day serves as a reminder of the historic struggle in which workers laid down their lives to secure basic rights such as fair pay and balanced working hours, which later became the basis of modern labour laws.

Referring to the 140-year-old Chicago workers’ movement, the president recalled that labourers had demanded “eight hours for work, eight hours for rest and eight hours for personal life,” emphasizing the value of human dignity and balanced living.

He noted that the Constitution of 1973 provides protection against exploitation and obliges the state to eliminate unfair economic practices while promoting justice and equality.

President Zardari praised Pakistan’s workers for their unwavering contribution to national progress, stating that labourers in sectors ranging from agriculture to industry continue to move the country forward through hard work and determination.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to global labour principles, the president highlighted the importance of fair wages, social security, elimination of forced and child labour, equal opportunities and compliance with conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO).

He also acknowledged the services of overseas Pakistanis, saying millions of workers abroad support the economy through remittances while reflecting the country’s values and professionalism on the international stage.

President Zardari said providing secure workplaces, equal opportunities and proper wages remains a top national priority, adding that the government will continue efforts aimed at strengthening labour safeguards and creating more opportunities for workers.

He underscored the need for investment in human resources through technical and vocational training, increased participation of women in the labour market and expanded employment opportunities for young people.

The president further called on workers, employers, trade unions, governments and international partners to join hands in building an economic system founded on justice, dignity and equal opportunity.

“A nation that protects its workers, protects its future,” he said, adding that labour empowerment was essential for sustainable national progress.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to Pakistan’s workforce as well as labourers around the globe, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and improving their living standards.

In his Labour Day message, the premier said that Pakistan stands with the international community in observing the occasion with renewed determination while recognizing the contributions of workers from every field of life.

He described labourers, farmers, craftsmen, factory employees and professionals as the foundation of society whose continuous efforts keep the country’s economy and social structure functioning.

PM Shehbaz said that the dedication of workers — from farms and factories to construction projects and international markets — reflects Pakistan’s resilience and hardworking spirit.

He particularly appreciated overseas Pakistanis, noting that millions serving abroad act as representatives of the country and make significant contributions to the economy through remittances.

The prime minister said that the government is prioritizing the development of modern workforce skills through initiatives introduced under the National Skills Development Policy to meet changing international market requirements.

He said special attention is being given to globally recognized training, language education and certification programs to create better employment prospects for Pakistanis seeking opportunities overseas.

He added that institutions such as the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits (EOAB) and the Workers Welfare Fund (WWF) are continuing their efforts to provide pensions, housing, educational support and other necessary facilities for workers and their families.

PM Shehbaz urged federal and provincial authorities, industrialists and the business community to uphold the dignity and rights of workers, emphasizing that ensuring fair treatment and better working conditions is a collective responsibility.

“Let us renew our commitment to honour and protect those who drive our progress,” the prime minister said, expressing confidence that Pakistan’s workforce would continue to make the country proud globally through dedication, expertise and integrity.