site.btaLabour Minister Ivanov Confers with ILO Director General Houngbo in Geneva

Bulgarian caretaker Labour and Social Policy Minister Ivaylo Ivanov conferred with International Labour Organization (ILO) Director General Gilbert Houngbo, the Ministry said in a press release on Tuesday. The meeting took place within the 112th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.

The two sides discussed the role of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, created at the idea of the ILO Director General. Ivanov expressed confidence that the initiative would have great added value in ensuring social justice in the labour world, bringing together the efforts of governments, social partners, international organizations, among other stakeholders. He stressed that Bulgaria's employment policy priorities in 2024 are in line with the Global Coalition’s priorities. Ivanov pointed to the adoption of the National Employment Action Plan as a key measure in this area, with the aim of promoting employment and reducing unemployment, including among disadvantaged groups on the labour market.

Ivanov and Houngbo underscored the good partnership between Bulgaria and ILO.

In the framework of the International Labour Conference, Ivanov also held meetings with his Moldovan counterpart Alexei Buzu and International Social Security Association Secretary General Marcelo Caetano. Their talks discussed contemporary challenges facing social security, the labour market and ensuring safe and healthy working conditions.