The International Labour Organization (ILO) has pledged full cooperation to assist the Bangladesh government in creating employment opportunities. The commitment was made by ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo during a bilateral meeting in Geneva with Bangladesh’s Minister of Labour and Employment, Ariful Haque Chowdhury, who was attending the 356th ILO Governing Body session. Prime Minister’s Adviser on Labour, Employment and Education Mahdi Amin and Labour Secretary Abdur Rahman Tarafdar were also present.

Houngbo expressed solidarity with Bangladesh’s priority programs and congratulated the new government on assuming office following recent elections. He emphasized the importance of Bangladesh’s democratic process and praised the country’s diplomatic efforts for gaining international support. Minister Chowdhury conveyed the Prime Minister’s greetings and highlighted the government’s focus on employment for youth and women, seeking a more active role from the ILO’s Dhaka office. He also requested cooperation in resolving the ongoing Article 26 issue concerning Bangladesh.

The meeting discussed strengthening international labour standards, expanding social protection programs, and increasing the involvement of multinational companies and global brands in ensuring workers’ rights. The minister welcomed Houngbo’s possible visit to Bangladesh in June.