Statement by India in the ILO Committee on the Application of Standards on the case of Zimbabwe [Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105)] - Delivered by Mr. Vimarsh Aryan, First Secretary during the 109th International Labour Conference 2021 (Geneva 8^th June, 2021)

Madam President

India welcomes the delegation of the Government of Zimbabwe and thanks it for providing the latest update on the issue under consideration.

2. India appreciates the commitment of the Government of Zimbabwe to fulfil its international labour obligations including those related to the ILO Convention 105 through progressive implementation of the relevant recommendations of the ILO and the willingness to constructively work with it.

3. We take positive note of the efforts being made by the Government of Zimbabwe in carrying forward the labour reforms despite the difficulties caused by the current pandemic situation. We also look forward to completion of the labour reforms process as soon as the pandemic situation normalizes.

4. We welcome the enactment of the progressive Maintenance of Peace Act that replaced the previous Public Order and Safety Act in 2019 and duly incorporates provisions for convening of meetings by the registered trade unions in accordance with the National Labour Act of Zimbabwe.

5. We request the ILO and its constituents to fully support the Government of Zimbabwe and provide all necessary technical assistance that it may seek in fulfilling its labour-related obligations.

6. We take this opportunity to wish the Government of Zimbabwe all success in its endeavours.

Thank You

**********