Pakistan and Oman have agreed to expedite the finalization of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on labor and manpower exchange to boost Pakistan’s workforce and facilitate their movement to Oman.
During a three-day visit to Oman, Pakistan’s Minister for Religious Affairs, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, met with Oman’s Minister of Labour, Dr. Mahad bin Said bin Ali Baowain, to discuss the reforms Pakistan is implementing to improve its workers’ emigration process and professional capacity.
Hussain informed the Omani side about Pakistan’s efforts to upgrade its technical training centers to meet the certification requirements of individual countries. He also highlighted the introduction of a compulsory “pre-departure orientation program” for Pakistani workers heading abroad, which will educate them about labor laws, workers’ rights, and cultural sensitivities of host countries.
Dr. Baowain acknowledged the contribution of skilled Pakistani workers to Oman’s development and reiterated Oman’s commitment to streamlining the migration process for Pakistani workers. Both sides agreed to enhance bilateral engagements, with Hussain extending an invitation to Baowain to visit Pakistan’s technical training facilities. He also proposed that Oman consider investing in skill development centers in Pakistan.
This partnership comes as Pakistan seeks to strengthen its labor market abroad, with millions of Pakistani workers already employed in Gulf countries, contributing significantly to the country’s foreign remittances.
