75 years of leadership, service, commitment: Message from Roberto Suarez Santos, Secretary-General International Organisation of Employers

On behalf of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), it is my privilege and honour to extend my warmest congratulations to the Employers’ Federation of Pakistan on the celebration of its Platinum Jubilee — seventy-five significant years of representing, advancing, and giving voice to the interests of employers and the business community of Pakistan.

Seventy-five years is not simply a milestone to be marked; it is a record of sustained institutional leadership through decades of profound economic, social, and political change and transformation. Since its establishment, EFP has stood as the principal voice of Pakistan’s employers - engaging with successive governments on labour policy and legislative reform, building the capacity of its company members, and ensuring that the perspective of business is heard clearly in every national conversation that shapes the world of work. That is no small achievement, and it reflects the vision, resilience, and dedication of generations of EFP leaders, staff, and member organisations who have carried this institution forward.

EFP’s contribution, however, extends well beyond Pakistan’s borders. As a longstanding and valued member of the IOE, EFP has been an active voice within the global employers’ community - contributing to IOE’s work at the International Labour Organization, United Nations and other fora, strengthening tripartite dialogue, and advocating for policy environments in which enterprises of all sizes, including the many MSMEs that form the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, can grow, innovate, compete and create employment. The partnership between EFP and IOE has been built on shared purpose and mutual respect, and it is one that IOE deeply values.

I am delighted that this occasion is being marked with the presence of ILO Director- General Mr Gilbert F. Houngbo and IOE Vice President for Asia, Ms Sonya Janahi, among many other distinguished guests - a fitting recognition of the standing EFP has earned within the broader international business community.

As EFP looks ahead to its next chapter, IOE stands ready to continue this partnership and cooperation - supporting EFP as it navigates the evolving challenges and opportunities facing employers in Pakistan and around the world, from digital transformation to skills shortages to promoting an enabling environment for business.

On behalf of the entire IOE membership, congratulations to EFP on this historic Platinum Jubilee. May the next seventy-five years be marked by the same dedication, influence, and service to Pakistan’s employers that have defined the last.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026