Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury. File Photo

DHAKA, June 9, 2026 (BSS) - Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury today underscored the need for enhanced regional cooperation to effectively address global challenges including unemployment, skills shortages, climate change and technological disruption.

He made the remarks while chairing the ministerial meeting of the Asia-Pacific Group (ASPAG) on the sidelines of the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) at the United Nations Office in Geneva, where Bangladesh played a key coordinating role.

In his welcome address, the minister highlighted the diversity and vast potential of the Asia-Pacific region, saying that ensuring decent work, social justice and inclusive development remains a common priority for all countries.

He noted that the region is confronting a range of challenges, including unemployment, skills gaps, the growth of the informal economy and the adverse impacts of climate change.

Referring to the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), automation and digital platforms, Ariful said technological change is creating new opportunities while also raising concerns over job displacement and skills mismatches. He stressed the importance of equipping workers for the future through digital literacy, lifelong learning and continuous skills development.

Emphasizing the importance of collective action, the minister said no country can tackle these challenges on its own and called for stronger regional collaboration through the exchange of experiences and best practices.

He also urged member states to work together to make the International Labour Organization (ILO) more democratic, inclusive and accountable. Heads of delegations from 45 countries across the Asia-Pacific region attended the meeting.