Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday reiterated his government’s pledge to protect workers’ rights, improve workplace safety and implement international labour standards during a meeting with International Labour Organization (ILO) Director‑General Gilbert F Houngbo.
The courtesy meeting took place at the Prime Minister’s Office in the Secretariat, according to a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Press Wing.
Houngbo praised Bangladesh’s commitment to labour sector reforms and the implementation of international labour standards, noting that these efforts have been receiving positive recognition globally.
The prime minister underscored his government’s determination to ensure a worker‑friendly and sustainable environment. The ILO chief, in turn, expressed readiness to expand cooperation with Bangladesh to support labour sector development.
Discussions covered a wide range of issues, including strengthening social protection, enhancing skills development, creating employment opportunities and building a workforce capable of meeting the demands of the evolving global labour market.
Both sides also reviewed progress in the readymade garment sector, workplace safety, development of the informal labour market and achievements in implementing international labour standards.
The talks further addressed the protection and welfare of migrant workers, promotion of safe and orderly migration and enhanced cooperation in upgrading the skills of overseas‑bound workers.
Congratulating Tarique Rahman on assuming office, Houngbo said international confidence in Bangladesh has grown stronger since a government elected through direct public votes took office.
He added that the ILO is keen to deepen its long‑standing partnership with Bangladesh and continue working closely with the government to improve the country’s labour sector.
Houngbo also congratulated Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman on his election as President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, describing it as a significant recognition of Bangladesh’s diplomatic standing and growing international credibility.
He praised the government’s recent diplomatic achievements on the global stage.
Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Labour and Employment Mahadi Amin, Labour and Employment Secretary Md Abdur Rahman Tarafdar, Director General (United Nations) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Md Kamruzzaman, ILO Country Director in Bangladesh Max Tuñón and Senior Adviser to the ILO Director‑General at the organisation’s Geneva headquarters Hitomi Nakagome were present at the meeting.
