DHAKA, April 19 (V7N) — A delegation of the International Labour Organization (ILO), led by Country Director Tuomo Poutiainen, paid a courtesy call on Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Professor Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain at his office today.

The meeting focused on enhancing Bangladesh’s social protection system, promoting women workers’ rights, eliminating child labour, and aligning social security programmes with international standards. Minister Zahid emphasized that under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership, the government is implementing wide‑ranging programmes to improve the lives of poor and vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.

Dr. Zahid sought ILO’s technical assistance in caregiver training, language education, and skills development programmes to safeguard rights and boost women’s participation in the workforce. He expressed hope that collaboration with the ILO would make social protection initiatives more effective and inclusive.

Country Director Tuomo Poutiainen reaffirmed ILO’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh through initiatives such as the ‘Gender and Skills Taskforce’ and ‘Gender and Skills Action Plan’, which aim to remove structural barriers and create pathways for inclusive skills training and employment. He also highlighted ILO’s assistance in developing the National Childcare Roadmap and National Minimum Standards for Childcare, describing them as key steps toward building a universal, affordable, and quality childcare system.

Poutiainen praised Bangladesh’s efforts in women’s empowerment and child development, reiterating ILO’s readiness to work closely with the government to advance labour rights, gender equality, and sustainable employment.

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