“Our goal is to ensure that skilled Sri Lankans are well-represented within the modern global labour market.” – Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe

Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe states that the government’s aspiration lies in creating more skilled workers to suit the global labour market. He points out that this approach has the potential to generate substantial foreign exchange, thereby strengthening the national economy.

Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe made these remarks in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia while addressing the local media during the Global Labour Market Conference (GLMC) which ends today.

The Deputy Minister of Labour, who further clarified the facts, stated that foreign workers are recruited for 23 job categories in Saudi Arabia. However, he pointed out that workers from Sri Lanka are only recruited for 6 job categories.

Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe further expressed his views at this event,

“The global labour market has created a great opportunity for us to eradicate poverty, adhering to the “Malima” government’s theme of “A Rich Country! A Beautiful Life.” Out of the 6.4 million families in our country, 2.4 million families live in poverty. If those poor families can produce skilled workers required for the global labour market, it will be a great support in alleviating poverty in this country.”

The Global Labour Market Conference (GLMC) commenced ceremoniously yesterday (29) in the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, under the patronage of the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the leader of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe left the island to participate in this event, representing Sri Lanka.

The presence of ministers in charge of the subject from many countries, along with labour leaders, leading businessmen, and policymakers, at this event is noteworthy.

The conference is currently attended by over 5,000 persons, with 180 speakers and over 70 labour ministers from around the world.

The Global Labour Market Conference (GLMC) focuses on latest trends in the global labour market, national policies, as well as the economic conditions of each country.

In addition, a range of current pressing labour market concerns, including salary disparities and youth employment, were also discussed at this event.

Thanking you.