CAIRO: The Director-General of the International Labor Organization (ILO), Juan Somavia, paid a three-day visit to Egypt upon an invitation by the new Minister of Finance, Samir Radwan, and Minister of Manpower and Migration, Ahmed El Boeai. Somavia expressed the support of ILO for more reforms to Egypt's labor market and economy. During his visit, Somavia witnessed the declaration by El Borai that trade unions will be registered and able to freely pursue their activities. He welcomed the invitation of the Egyptian Ministers to the ILO to work together with Egypt and said Egypt is requesting its contribution to key issues such as freedom of association, wages, social protection and employment, especially for youth. Somavia also expressed his support for government proposals to tackle unemployment, such as employment-intensive investment programs, an enhanced development of small and medium-size enterprises and large-scale development projects. He also welcomed government efforts to establish an effective minimum wage policy and a sustainable scheme of unemployment insurance. He hailed the enthusiasm and constructive spirit that is widespread in Egypt these days. “The people's revolution, which broke out in Egypt on 25 January, has brought freedom and the path back to full democracy. It has generated hopes for a new beginning,” stated Somavia. BM
