Pakistani president, PM reaffirm commitment to workers' rights on Labor Day

ISLAMABAD, May 1 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani president and prime minister on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to protecting workers' rights and promoting a dignified and safe working environment, as the country marked International Labor Day.

In separate messages issued on the occasion, both leaders paid tribute to the vital role of Pakistani workers in national development and pledged to further strengthen legislative and institutional support for their welfare.

President Asif Ali Zardari highlighted the sacrifices and contributions of laborers, calling them the backbone of the national economy.

The president emphasized the need to equip workers with modern skills to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market, and urged collaborative efforts from all sectors, including government, private enterprises, and civil society, to create a just and inclusive labor ecosystem.

"Our workers are our pride, and we owe our national development to their hard work and contributions," the president said, stressing the importance of fair wages, social protection, and safe working conditions.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the government's recent reforms aimed at strengthening labor protections and aligning national laws with international conventions.

"Through digitization and labor law reforms, we are building a future where every worker has access to dignity, safety, and opportunity. At the same time, skill development initiatives are being expanded, with a special focus on empowering youth and women with demand-driven vocational training," said the prime minister.

Both leaders urged unity among employers, workers, unions, and policymakers to cultivate a culture of respect for labor and to promote equitable growth through skill development and inclusive policies. ■