Mr. Farhat Hussain, Federal Secretary, Labour to the Government of Pakistan who was elected as Vice Chairperson to the 13^th Asian Regional Meeting stated in his concluding remarks:-

1. "The 13^th Asian Regional Meeting has been immensely useful for the countries of Asia and Pacific region. It provided ample opportunity to the social partners (governments, workers and employers) from the region to exchange their views on a number of issues particularly employment generation, poverty reduction, up-gradation of skills and other allied areas. "Social dialogue" is the best means to resolve issues and problems relating to these areas. It also serves as basis for the attainment of objective of decent work and reducing decent work deficit. The work done by the Director General, Mr. Juan Somavia on decent work has contributed commendably to the development of the concept all over the world as well as within the region. He deserves our gratitude for his efforts in this regard."

2. "Pakistan believes in the principle of tripartism to resolve labour issues. Pakistan is fully committed to the observance of the ILO standards and upholding of fundamental rights of workers. We believe in gender equality and eradication of violations against human rights. We have recently ratified ILO Convention 100 regarding equal remuneration for men and women for work of equal value and Convention 182 concerning worst forms of child labour. The implementation of these instruments is a big task before the Government. We have already taken a number of steps for the elimination of child and bonded labour. A National Policy and Action Plan for Elimination of Child Labour and National Policy and Action Plan for Abolition of Bonded Labour have been put in place. A number of welfare measures have recently been taken for workers."

3. "I avail of this opportunity to extend my thanks once again for being elected as Vice Chairperson to the meeting which is in fact a recognition of Pakistan’s position in the comity of nations. Thank you."