Sri Lanka, Thailand forge labour mobility pact; 10,000 workers approved

Sri Lanka and Thailand formalised their labour cooperation framework on September 14 in Bangkok, establishing a structured pathway for Sri Lankan workers seeking employment opportunities in the kingdom. The agreement represents a significant step in bilateral labour relations, creating mechanisms to ensure safe, regular and mutually beneficial worker mobility between the two nations.

Thailand has granted initial approval for the recruitment of 10,000 Sri Lankan workers under the new framework. The agreement establishes protocols designed to protect workers' rights, ensure fair treatment and safeguard welfare standards throughout the employment process.

The labour cooperation pact addresses longstanding concerns regarding worker protection and rights in cross-border employment. By creating a formal bilateral structure, both nations aim to eliminate irregular migration pathways and establish transparent recruitment and employment procedures that benefit workers and employers alike.

The framework is expected to expand employment opportunities for Sri Lankans in Thailand's labour market while strengthening economic ties between the two countries. Officials from both nations indicated that the agreement could serve as a model for regional labour cooperation initiatives.