Islamabad: A high-level delegation from the Employers’ Federation of Pakistan, in collaboration with the International Labour Organization Office for Pakistan, met with the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Pakistan, Mohamed Yahya, to discuss enhancing private sector involvement in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. EFP presented its initiatives, including the development of the Pakistan Business Task Force (PBTF) under the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and presented a three-year roadmap for private-sector engagement in the process in achieving the sustainable development agenda.
EFP also presented a comprehensive report detailing its efforts over the past five years to promote Fair Work and Social Equity in Pakistan. The report emphasized various initiatives to foster social justice, decent work, and support for SMEs in creating an enabling business environment aligned with international standards.
Mohamed Yahya, the UN Resident Coordinator, commended EFP’s proactive role and emphasized the crucial contribution of the private sector in achieving the SDGs. “The private sector is a key component in achieving the SDGs,” said Yahya, highlighting the importance of continuous evaluation and monitoring of the Task Force’s progress towards its objectives. He expressed his full support for EFP’s initiatives and pledged to work closely with the federation in scaling up private sector engagement, particularly in the areas of Gender Equality, Climate Change, and Business and Human Rights.
The UNRC also stressed the significance of maintaining Pakistan’s GSP+ status, particularly for the textile sector, which plays a pivotal role in the country’s economy. He urged the Task Force and EFP to lobby and advocate for government policies that create an enabling environment for compliance with international standards, emphasizing the need for environmental diligence and support for SMEs in meeting these requirements.
Malik Tahir Javaid, President of EFP, elaborated on the constitution of the PBTF under the UNSDCF, describing it as a coalition of key stakeholders committed to driving the achievement of the SDGs. “The Task Force will serve as a powerful collective force, bringing together all important stakeholders to steer the private sector towards a sustainable future,” he stated.
Geir Tonstoel, ILO Country Director for Pakistan, also appreciated EFP’s efforts and acknowledged the PBTF as an essential platform for promoting SDGs and Business and Human Rights in Pakistan. He emphasized the need for tripartite stakeholders to engage in social dialogue, which is critical for establishing a favorable policy and regulatory framework that enables sustainable business practices.
Syed Hasnain Mazher, Director of EFP, emphasized the critical role of skills development and capacity building, especially for SMEs. He highlighted the need for ongoing support to help SMEs integrate and sustain the Sustainability Agenda within their operations, thereby enhancing their contribution to national and global development goals.
Syed Nazar Ali, Secretary General of EFP, presented an ambitious roadmap for business engagement, particularly highlighting the private sector’s potential contribution to the Sustainability Agenda. He underscored the importance of promoting decent work and social justice as fundamental components of sustainable development.
The Pakistan Business Task Force, as highlighted during the meeting, is positioned as a vital bridge between the United Nations and the private sector in Pakistan. It aims to amplify the collective voice of businesses and significantly contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. The roadmap presented by EFP sets a clear direction for collaborative efforts, ensuring a sustainable future for Pakistan.
The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from all parties to continue working together towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, with a focus on creating an enabling environment for businesses to flourish while adhering to global standards and promoting social equity.