Atif Ikram Sheikh, president of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, paid tribute to workers across Pakistan on Labour Day, honouring the martyrs of Chicago and the global struggle for labour rights. He said Labour Day reminds the nation of the sacrifices that shaped modern workers’ protections.
Sheikh described the working class as the backbone of the national economy and urged that on Labour Day all workers be recognised for their contribution to industrial growth and social stability. He emphasised that sustainable economic progress is not possible without guaranteeing workers their fundamental rights.
The FPCCI president called for meaningful improvements in wages, enhanced social security and better welfare facilities for labourers. He stressed that providing fair pay, safe working conditions and reliable social protection must be a top priority for both government and industry leaders.
Highlighting the link between industrial development and worker-friendly policies, Sheikh said that national growth requires giving workers an equal share in the benefits of progress. He urged policymakers to adopt measures that ensure workplaces are safe and that labour receives due representation in economic planning.
Sheikh noted that the FPCCI remains in regular contact with government authorities to advance solutions for workers’ issues and recommended targeted relief measures in view of current inflationary pressures. He underscored the urgency of short-term support alongside long-term reforms to stabilise livelihoods.
The federation is also focusing on skills training and creating better employment opportunities, Sheikh added, saying that vocational training and job creation are essential to empower labour and sustain a resilient economy. He concluded that a prosperous Pakistan will only be realised when its workers are prosperous and empowered.
