Azerbaijan, International Labour Organisation deepen ties to enhance social welfare, labour reforms

Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov met with Gilbert Houngbo, the Director-General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), to discuss strengthening cooperation and advancing social reforms.

During the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with the robust and effective partnership between Azerbaijan and the ILO. They underscored that enhancing the social welfare of the population remains a top priority of Azerbaijan's national policy, Caliber.Az reports.

Asadov emphasised the success of four rounds of social reform packages, which have positively impacted millions of Azerbaijani citizens. He also highlighted the launch of the fifth reform package in January 2025, which is expected to benefit approximately 3 million people.

The discussions focused on reforms aimed at improving labor productivity, protecting workers' rights, addressing informal employment, and expanding employment programmes. 

Both sides also took the opportunity to review current areas of cooperation and discuss prospects for further collaboration in the future.

During a meeting with Houngbo in Baku on April 14, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s continued progress in improving labour conditions, expanding employment opportunities, and enhancing the social welfare of its population. The president emphasised that these achievements are being implemented through comprehensive reforms and development initiatives under his leadership. A key focus of the discussion was the post-conflict reconstruction of the liberated territories.

President Aliyev recalled the extensive destruction of infrastructure during the years of occupation and noted that, in parallel with large-scale rebuilding efforts, creating jobs for returning residents remains a critical priority. He expressed Azerbaijan's interest in strengthening cooperation with the ILO to address these challenges effectively. In response, Houngbo expressed appreciation for the meeting and acknowledged the fruitful partnership between Azerbaijan and the ILO. He noted the successful implementation of two previous "Decent Work Country Programs" and informed that preparation for the 2025–2029 programme is currently underway.

By Naila Huseynova