BAGHDAD, May 1 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi top officials on Wednesday pledged to support the Iraqi workers on the occasion of the International Labor Day, calling on workers to contribute effectively to the reconstruction of the country after the victory over the extremist Islamic State (IS) group.
The Iraqi President Barham Salih said in his statement of congratulations "on this occasion, we emphasize the need for give the working class the required attention and care as well as improving their living standards."
"We also urge to activate the labor unions to defend their rights as well as to work and coordinate with the Council of Representatives (Parliament) to pass legislation necessary to promote the status of the working class just like the other countries of the world," Salih said.
"The next phase will require the mobilization of all efforts and capacities to rebuild and reconstruct the cities that have been sabotaged and destroyed by the terrorist gangs of Daesh (IS group)," Salih added.
A statement by the office of the Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said "May 1 is an occasion to enhance the value of work. Without it, there would be no economic or security stability. It is also an important opportunity to strengthen all efforts to ensure that the working environment is healthy and legally-protected that would preserve the workers' rights, whether in the private or public sectors."
Abdul Mahdi also confirmed Iraq's commitment "to the international charters that regulate the working environment in various labor activities in order to ensure sustainable development, which we rely on to promote Iraq's progress," according to the statement.
The Iraqi parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi said in another statement issued by his office that "we extend our warmest greetings and appreciation on this occasion (Labor Day), and call for continuous efforts for all the good and progress of our beloved country. You represent the basic pillar of building and construction at this important stage."
Al-Halbousi confirmed that the parliament "is in the process of passing legislation that will contribute to providing decent living for all labors and guarantee their legitimate rights," the statement added.
