Doha: Under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the 6th Session of the Islamic Conference of Labour Ministers (ICLM) concluded today in Doha, reaffirming the commitment of member states to strengthen cooperation on employment, social protection, and human capital development. Chaired by HE Minister of Labour and Chair of the 6th ICLM, Dr. Ali bin Samikh Al Marri, the closing session brought together labour ministers, heads of delegations, and representatives from international and regional organisations, alongside experts and civil society, to adopt the final communique of the conference.
According to Qatar News Agency, in his remarks, HE Dr. Al Marri praised the "constructive engagement and shared vision" demonstrated by all delegations, which, he said, had "enriched the discussions and strengthened the spirit of partnership among OIC member states." He emphasized that the exchange of ideas and best practices over the past two days demonstrated the potential for turning shared challenges into shared progress. Dr. Al Marri expressed appreciation for the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretariat, the technical committees, and all participating institutions for their contributions to the conference's success.
The final communique welcomed Qatar's proposal, in partnership with the OIC Labour Centre, SESRIC, the Arab Labour Organization, and the International Labour Organization (ILO), to launch joint regional training programmes. These initiatives aim to develop unified regional guidelines for recognizing professional skills and qualifications. The document highlighted the significance of investing in skills development, promoting decent work, and supporting private sector growth to enhance competitiveness among OIC member states.
Dr. Al Marri stated that the Islamic world is at a turning point in transforming labour markets, emphasizing that embracing innovation while upholding the dignity of work will be crucial for achieving inclusive and sustainable growth. The ministers reiterated their support for Palestine's right to full membership in the International Labour Organization and other international bodies, underscoring the importance of ensuring decent work and economic opportunities for the Palestinian people.
Delegates commended SESRIC for its regular assessment of the OIC Labour Market Strategy, which aids in tracking progress, identifying challenges, and promoting knowledge exchange. The final communique also welcomed initiatives to foster networks of small and medium enterprises, women-led cooperatives, and investment promotion agencies, aimed at empowering entrepreneurship and women's economic participation.
The conference called on member states to leverage artificial intelligence and digital technologies to enhance labour market governance, while ensuring ethical and inclusive approaches to technological change. In closing, the participants expressed their appreciation to the Government of Qatar for its hospitality and organization of the 6th ICLM, describing it as a milestone in advancing cooperation and solidarity among OIC member states. Dr. Al Marri concluded by stating that Qatar is proud to host this platform for dialogue and unity, as they work together to shape a future of work that is just, inclusive, and centered on human dignity.