Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain has called for provision of adequate labour protection to Pakistan's large freelance and digital workforce.

He was talking to International Labour Organization (ILO) Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo, who called on him in Islamabad today.

The Minister said safe, fair and dignified migration is among Pakistan's key priorities. He expressed the determination that Pakistan would continue its cooperation with the ILO in fair recruitment, labour migration and the protection of workers. He added Pakistan seeks to further enhance cooperation with the ILO for promoting employment, developing skills and safeguarding workers' rights.

In his remarks, Gilbert F. Houngbo said expressed his commitment to improving opportunities for Pakistani workers in the global labour market and ensuring the protection and welfare of workers.

During the meeting, both sides also agreed to enhance efforts to equip Pakistan's workforce with skills in accordance with international standards and provide training aligned with modern requirements. The ILO assured that it would continue supporting Pakistan in improving the skills of its workforce and creating better opportunities for Pakistani workers in the global labour market.

On the occasion, Chaudhry Salik Hussain and ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo distributed cheques among representatives of workers.

Chaudhry Salik Hussain also presented a commemorative shield and gifts to ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo.

Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Muhammad Awn Chaudhry, Federal Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry, Secretary Workers Welfare Fund Zulfiqar Ahmed, and representatives of workers' unions and employers' organizations were also present on the occasion.