LONDON – In a significant move towards fostering international cooperation, Sheikh Muhammad Anwar, Central President of the Pakistan Railways Prem Union, met with Alex Gordon, President of the UK’s National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) in London on November 20th.
The meeting focused on key issues facing railway workers in both countries, including the rehabilitation of Pakistan Railways following the devastating 2022 floods. Gordon expressed particular interest in the potential of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to transform Pakistan’s railway infrastructure, specifically highlighting the ML-1 railway upgrade and the Reko Diq project.
Concerns were also raised regarding restrictions imposed on trade unions within Pakistan Railways. Anwar briefed Gordon on ongoing efforts to address these challenges, and Gordon pledged to advocate for Pakistani railway workers’ rights on global platforms, including the Geneva Conventions.
Both leaders emphasized the vital contributions of railway workers and expressed a shared commitment to peace and mutual development. Gordon commended the resilience of Pakistan Railways workers, while Anwar extended an invitation for Gordon to visit Pakistan and witness their dedication firsthand.
This meeting signifies a strengthening of international solidarity within the rail industry, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing modern challenges.