By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, Sep 29 (Alliance News): Pakistan and Oman have agreed to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on labor and manpower exchange, aimed at enhancing the Pakistani workforce and streamlining their movement to Oman.
The decision was made during a meeting in Muscat between Pakistan’s Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Oman’s Minister of Labour, Dr. Mahad bin Said bin Ali Baowain, according to a press release issued Sunday.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain is on a three-day visit to Oman, where he will meet several ministers and inaugurate a new branch of Pakistan International School in Muscat.
During the meeting, Hussain briefed the Omani side about Pakistan’s efforts to improve its emigration process, enhance workers’ skills, and promote Pakistani manpower abroad.
He highlighted the government’s focus on upgrading technical training centers to align with certification requirements of different regions and countries.
The minister also announced the introduction of a compulsory pre-departure orientation program for Pakistani workers, which will educate them on labor laws, rights, duties, and cultural sensitivities of host countries.
Dr. Mahad bin Said bin Ali Baowain praised the contribution of Pakistani workers to Oman’s development, noting their skillset across various fields. He expressed Oman’s commitment to improving the migration process for Pakistani workers.
Hussain extended an invitation to his Omani counterpart to visit Pakistan and explore joint training initiatives. He also proposed Oman’s investment in skill development centers in Pakistan, tailored to meet the needs of the Omani job market.
Both sides agreed to increase official engagements to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.