“We are proud to have such committed leaders as part of the United Nations Country Team in Pakistan,” said Mr. Onder Yucer, Resident Coordinator of UN Pakistan. “Both of them have always gone beyond the call of duty to serve the people of Pakistan. We have learnt from their leadership, we have learnt from their hard work.”

Dr. Bile retired last month after serving in Pakistan as the WHO representative since 2001. This will be his second national award from the Government of Pakistan. He was awarded the Sitar-e-Quaid-e- Azam in 2008.

“I am grateful to the government and to the people of Pakistan for this high honor. I have always tried to do my best,” said Dr. Bile in response to the announcement of the award.

Serving as the Director for ILO Pakistan since July 2004, Mr. Li is the personification of meticulous devotion to improving labor related issues in Pakistan. His passion and hard work have enabled ILO to support the Government in establishing the requisite policies, building capacities and providing the required support to the Government of Pakistan.

While talking about the award, Mr Li said, “I am honored to have this award. I have always tried to work for the people of Pakistan and am thankful to the Government for this honor.”

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For further information, please call: UNRCO Islamabad: Amena Aly Kamaal, +92 300 8564576, amena.kamaal@un.org; or UNIC Islamabad: Ishrat Rizvi +92 300 8553790

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