Qatar will open doors for skilled labor

Qatar will open doors for skilled labor

The Arab Gulf nation of Qatar is set to open its market for Pakistani skilled labor as the two countries prepare to sign an agreement soon.

The Government of Pakistan has approved a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Labour, Qatar and Pakistan’s Ministry of Overseas and Human Resource Development.

Market people say Pakistan has already missed an opportunity to export labor to Qatar when certain overseas job promoters have a monopoly on sending workers to Doha.

In a recent cabinet meeting, the Department of Human Resource Development and Overseas Pakistan said since 1971 more than 0.3 million Pakistani workers have migrated to Qatar, contributing significantly to its socio-economic progress.

In 1987, an agreement was signed between Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Qatar’s Ministry of Labor with a focus on providing jobs to Pakistani workers in Arab countries.

The Cabinet was informed that to increase cooperation in labor mobility, Qatar has proposed a draft MoU, aimed at exchanging expertise in labor relations, labor inspection, occupational safety and health. Cabinet was informed that the MoU had been shared with stakeholders for their views, inputs and no objection certificates (NOCs), and all stakeholders agreed to the contents of the draft.

In addition, the Law and Justice Division, while examining the draft MoU from a legal point of view, suggested some editorial changes, which were also incorporated into the MoU.

During the ensuing discussion, it was noted that Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs should focus on sending skilled manpower from Pakistan, including those with the necessary knowledge and expertise in the fields of high technology, information technology, paramedics, electrical and plumbing services, etc. to the country. other.

The ministry was directed to engage community welfare attachés on duty at Pakistani missions abroad to collect data on openings in foreign countries and required skills.

In addition, the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) was told to facilitate and provide income-generating skills training according to the needs of the job market in both countries.

Recognizing that NAVTTC needs to improve its performance, the cabinet directed to make a presentation on its strategic plan including a clear timeline.

The Cabinet observed that measures must also be taken for the establishment of Pakistani companies and the promotion of their business abroad. The Cabinet Chairman expressed concern over the recent expulsion of Pakistani nurses by the Saudi authorities for allegedly providing inaccurate information and data manipulation. He directed Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to present the findings of the inquiry committee set up for the purpose.