EFP Platinum Jubilee marked: Governor calls for stronger govt-business-labour partnership

Sindh Governor Syed Muhammad Nihal Hashmi urged closer cooperation between the government, the business community and workers to strengthen Pakistan's economy, safeguard labour rights and support sustainable industrial growth. He made the remarks at a ceremony held at Governor House to mark the 75th anniversary, or Platinum Jubilee, of the Employers' Federation of Pakistan (EFP). Business Recorder reported that federal and Sindh ministers, ILO Director-General Gilbert F Houngbo, diplomats and business representatives attended.

Governor Hashmi described the EFP's 75-year record as one of trust, continuity and national service, and stressed that workers are essential to the country's industrial progress and economic life. He told the gathering that authorities were balancing worker-focused and business-focused policies, and that measures for workers' welfare were under way under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The governor also asked everyone involved to adopt measures that strengthen the economy's competitiveness and durability.

EFP President Majyd Aziz said the federation has more than 900 members, comprising companies and associations, and through its Economic Council has shaped macro-level policy blueprints, such as the Pakistan National Business Agenda and Economic Vision. He added that the EFP has put forward trade suggestions and budget submissions to government departments, and that it is the sole trade body in Pakistan linked with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council. Aziz declared the EFP's unconditional backing for Houngbo's further five-year term as ILO Director-General.