Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) : In a historic move, Pakistan, through its Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (OP&HRD), is participating for the first time in an International Human Resources & Labour Services Expo in Riyadh.
This significant step, led by Jawad Sohrab Malik, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (OP&HRD), marks a new era in showcasing Pakistan’s workforce on the global stage. The Expo, a major event in the global labor market, is taking place in Riyadh since 24th December, 2023 upto 27th December, 2023.
Mr. Jawad Sohrab Malik, SAPM orchestrated Pakistan’s participation in the Expo and also inaugurated Pakistan’s Pavilion at the Expo. Moreover, over a dozen agreements with Saudi and international companies were executed to boost employment opportunities abroad for the Pakistani workforce. These agreements would open doors for Pakistani workforce in various sectors such as construction, hospitality, IT, services industry and various other fields globally. Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC) which is part of Ministry of Overseas Pakistan and Human Resource Development, was also present at the expo through its MD, Naseer Khan Kashani. Other dignitaries at the expo included Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mr. Ahmad Farooq and representatives of multinational organizations.
While underlining the importance of the expo, SAPM stated that the expo serves as a pivotal forum, bringing together human resources and recruitment companies alongside reliable and accredited labor services entities. It provides an invaluable opportunity for Pakistan to engage with the global community, understand international market needs, and tailor our skills to meet the evolving demands of the job market.
Further, commenting on the occasion, SAPM Jawad Sohrab Malik stated that the expo presents a unique opportunity for Pakistan to exhibit the capabilities and potential of its labor force. The Expo is not just a platform for job opportunities; it is a testament to Pakistan’s dedication to skill development and its commitment to compete globally.
He said “Today, the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis, through its department OEC, stands proud at the Expo, demonstrating the rich potential of Pakistan’s technical workforce. This is a moment of pride as OEC, for the first time, represents Pakistan on this significant global platform”.
SAPM Malik further stated, “Looking ahead, there are exciting plans to establish new vocational training centers across Pakistan, specifically tailored to meet the job market demands of regions like Saudi Arabia. This initiative underscores Pakistan’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce ready to meet global challenges. The Expo also opens avenues for collaboration with Saudi entities in vocational training and skill development, positioning OEC as a leader in the export of skilled manpower from Pakistan and as well as private OEPs.”
SAPM Malik expressed that participation in the Expo is more than an event; it’s a gateway for the Pakistani skilled workforce, opening up new horizons and showcasing Pakistan’s commitment to its citizens, both at home and abroad.
