President Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz call for protection of dignity of workers on Labor Day

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

In their separate messages on the occasion of the International Workers’ Day, they said a nation that protects its workers protects its future, adding that workers’ empowerment is the path to sustainable national strength.

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

In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz said that Pakistan’s workforce, both at home and abroad, reflects the country’s national capacity, hard work 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 People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said workers are the true strength of the nation and Labor Day pays tribute to their sacrifices. He stressed that a just Pakistan required empowerment of workers, protection of their rights and ensuring welfare, reaffirming the PPP’s commitment to labor rights.

PPP women’s wing president Faryal Talpur paid tribute to the workers, terming their sacrifices as the foundation of national development. She said the rights and dignity of workers must be protected, adding that 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 the living standards of workers through pro-labour policies and legal protections. He stressed the strict enforcement of minimum wage laws and reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of workers.

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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 emphasized increasing the minimum wage, enforcing labor laws, and providing health and financial support.

Sindh Chief Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said workers are the backbone of society and deserve recognition for their sacrifices. He highlighted government measures including higher wages, enforcement of labor laws and social protection initiatives for workers and farmers.

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