President Md Sahabuddin on Friday stated that the current government is working for the welfare of the working class by maintaining the continuity established by former president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia.
Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting organised by the Ministry of Labour and Employment at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Exhibition Centre (China-Bangladesh Friendship Conference Centre) to mark May Day, the President noted that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman laid the foundation for remittance flows, which he described as the lifeblood of the Bangladeshi economy.
He added that Khaleda Zia subsequently upheld that trend and expressed solidarity with the labour community, a path the current government continues through various welfare initiatives.
Architects of Development
The President described the country’s workers as the “main architects” of national development, stating that their tireless efforts are driving the economy and civilisation forward.
He affirmed that the government is implementing labour welfare action plans in phases as promised. The event was held under the theme: “Healthy workers, hardworking hands, a new dawn for all.”
Industrial growth and Jute mills
Emphasising the importance of industrialisation, President Sahabuddin highlighted that within just two months of assuming office, the administration has taken effective initiatives to reopen closed factories, sugar mills, and silk factories.
He further announced that six closed jute mills would be reopened in phases within the next six months.
Legal reforms and ILO standards
To further consolidate workers’ rights, the President mentioned the passage of the “Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Act, 2026” shortly after the government took charge.
He also noted that Bangladesh has ratified 39 conventions and one protocol of the International Labour Organization (ILO) to ensure international labour standards are maintained.
Warning Against Provocation Stressing the need for a harmonious relationship between workers and owners, the President cautioned workers against being drawn into labour unrest provoked by “vested interests.”
He called upon all stakeholders to behave responsibly and remain vigilant to ensure the country’s sustainable industrial development.
During the ceremony, financial assistance was handed over to the families of 13 workers who lost their lives in a fire at a chemical warehouse in Rupnagar, Mirpur. The Minister for Labour and Employment, Ariful Haque Choudhury, and senior government officials were also in attendance.
