Diplomats, UN officials and political leaders held discussions on labour laws, workers' rights and ongoing reform efforts in the country. Political leaders pledged to implement labour reforms and sustainable growth in the garment industry.

The political leaders made these pledges at a high-level dinner hosted by the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations on Thursday (September 25). Principal Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus was the chief guest at the event.

The Principal Adviser said that labour reforms are of immense importance in attracting large-scale foreign investment in Bangladesh. He reiterated his commitment to implement important reforms in line with the International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions before the upcoming national elections in February.

The discussions, moderated by the Principal Adviser's Special Envoy Lutfe Siddiqui, were attended by the ILO Director-General and senior representatives of various UN agencies. Participants spoke about the broader impact of labour reforms on Bangladesh's economic future and international standing.

Political leaders of Bangladesh's three major parties stressed the importance of the garment industry in their speeches. At the same time, they expressed support for continued labor sector reforms.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir described the garment industry as the cornerstone of Bangladesh's economy. He said that any future government must prioritize its growth and sustainability. He recognized the efforts of the interim government to advance labor reforms and ILO commitments.

Jamaat-e-Islami Nayeb Ameer Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher said that many leaders and activists of Jamaat have direct experience in the garment industry. This will help make the sector more competitive. He supported the interim government's reform agenda. He pledged to take it forward if elected.

Humayun Kabir, foreign affairs advisor to BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, said that the current labor initiatives are commendable. These should not only be continued, but also expanded further under the future administration.

NCP senior leader Dr. Tasneem Zara cited the Rana Plaza tragedy as a defining moment in her political journey. She said her experience as a medical student caring for the injured made her realize the human cost of unsafe labor practices.

Principal Advisor Professor Yunus reiterated the government's determination to implement meaningful and lasting reforms.