Islamabad: In a significant development, Pakistan and Oman have agreed to fast-track the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at increasing labor exchange and enhancing job opportunities for Pakistani workers in Oman.

According to Zameen.Com, the decision to expedite the MoU was made during a meeting in Muscat between Pakistan’s Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Salik, and Oman’s Minister of Labour, Dr. Mahad bin Said bin Ali Baowain. Minister Salik, who is on a three-day visit to Oman, highlighted Pakistan's efforts to reform emigration policies and technical training programs to align with international standards.

Oman is a major destination for Pakistani labor in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), employing approximately 360,000 Pakistanis primarily in sectors such as construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, logistics, and retail. The financial contributions from these workers play a crucial role in Pakistan’s economy, with their remittances exceeding USD 1 billion annually.

During the discussions, Minister Salik also introduced plans for a mandatory pre-departure orientation program for workers bound overseas and urged Oman to recruit skilled manpower through Pakistan’s Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC). On his part, Dr. Mahad commended the contributions of Pakistani workers to Oman's development and pledged to make the migration process more streamlined.

The ministers expressed mutual commitment to deepen bilateral relations and continuously enhance the partnership to benefit both nations and their labor forces.