Geneva: Labour and Employment Adviser Brig Gen (retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hussain recently convened with labour ministers from Asia Pacific Group (ASPAG) countries during the 113rd conference of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting covered a range of critical issues, such as sustainable development, labour rights, protection of expatriate workers, and addressing the impacts of climate change. Dr Sakhawat opened the meeting by expressing gratitude to the ILO and Japan, the coordinating country of ASPAG, for organizing this significant conference.
Dr Sakhawat highlighted the substantial contribution of ASPAG countries, noting that around 60 percent of the global labour force contributes nearly 40 percent of the global GDP. However, he pointed out challenges these countries face, particularly in the non-formal sectors, social safety networks, and climate change.
In discussing Bangladesh's achievements, Dr Sakhawat emphasized the efforts of the interim government, led by Chief Adviser Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus, to amend the Labour Law-2006, streamline trade union registration processes, and enhance the working environment for labourers. He also reiterated the government's commitment to youth skill development and creating employment opportunities.
The meeting was informed that Bangladesh will soon assume the role of coordinating country for the Asia Pacific Group under the ILO. Dr Sakhawat sought cooperation from all member countries, affirming Bangladesh's dedication to fostering a fair and inclusive labour market in the region.
The gathering was attended by several notable figures, including ILO Director General Gilbert F Houngbo, representatives from 14 Asia Pacific countries, Labour and Employment Ministry Secretary AHM Safiquzzaman, Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority Chairman Major General Abul Kalam Mohmammad Ziaur Rahman, and Additional Inspector General of Police Gazi Jasim Uddin.