Mahdi Amin, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Labor and Employment, on Friday reaffirmed the government's commitment to worker welfare, workplace safety and job creation, identifying the labor force as the "backbone of national development."

Speaking at a May Day discussion at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Conference Centre in the capital, the Adviser—who also oversees Education, Primary and Mass Education, and Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment—emphasized that "improving the living standards of working people is among the government's top priorities."

He noted that the administration is actively advancing labor-friendly policies, expanding employment opportunities, and implementing comprehensive welfare programs.

Describing workers as the "key drivers of economic growth and prosperity," Mahdi Amin noted that industry, agriculture, and infrastructure rely entirely on their tireless contributions.

"Ensuring fair rights, safe working conditions, better living standards and social dignity for workers is a fundamental responsibility of any democratic and accountable government," he stated.

The Adviser highlighted that the current government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is prioritizing labor welfare through strategic policy support and strengthened social protection measures.

He revealed that plans are currently being implemented to boost employment, enhance workers' skills, and ensure occupational safety to contribute to long-term sustainable development.

Reflecting on the first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, Mahdi Amin remarked that active discussions on public issues, freedom of expression and human rights reflected "growing public empowerment and democratic progress," a trend he promised would continue.

He further stressed that workers' empowerment, alongside that of women and youth, would receive top institutional and policy focus.

Recalling the vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the Adviser noted that the late leader believed the labor force was central to the nation's prosperity.

He cited previous BNP-led governments' roles in labor law reforms, the formation of wage commissions, setting minimum wages for garment workers, and the establishment of welfare funds.

The Adviser reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to global labor standards, noting the ratification of 38 conventions and one protocol of the International Labour Organization (ILO).

He added that steps are underway to ensure timely wage payments, periodic reviews, equal pay for men and women, and the protection of migrant workers.

Furthermore, initiatives such as "expatriate worker cards" are being introduced under the labor ministry's supervision.

"Ensuring workers' safety, dignity and welfare will help build a prosperous, self-reliant and humane Bangladesh," Mahdi Amin concluded, expressing optimism that collective national efforts would secure future development goals.