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Myanmar and Thai Envoys Convene in Ottawa to Address Migrant Worker Protections
Diplomatic talks focus on labour rights, legal safeguards and bilateral cooperation for migrant communities
The ambassadors of Myanmar and Thailand met in Ottawa this week to discuss the welfare and legal protections of migrant workers, underscoring the importance both governments place on safeguarding their nationals abroad and strengthening bilateral labour cooperation.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the talks centred on improving coordination in areas including employment standards, documentation processes and access to consular assistance.
Particular attention was given to addressing challenges faced by migrant workers in sectors such as construction, agriculture and service industries, where labour mobility between the two Southeast Asian nations has long been significant.
Thailand remains a primary destination for migrant workers from Myanmar, with millions employed across various industries.
Ensuring legal status, fair wages and workplace safety has been a continuing priority for authorities on both sides.
The Ottawa meeting provided an opportunity for diplomatic representatives to review existing frameworks and explore mechanisms to enhance communication between labour agencies and embassies.
Officials discussed the need to streamline verification procedures and expand awareness campaigns aimed at reducing vulnerability to exploitation or irregular employment arrangements.
Both ambassadors reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative solutions grounded in international labour standards and mutual respect for national laws.
The engagement reflects a broader pattern of regional dialogue on migrant labour governance, as Southeast Asian economies seek to balance labour market needs with stronger worker protections.
Diplomatic sources indicated that follow-up consultations may be held to translate the discussions into practical measures benefiting migrant communities.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing readiness to deepen cooperation to ensure that migrant workers are treated with dignity and have reliable access to legal and social support systems wherever they are employed.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the talks centred on improving coordination in areas including employment standards, documentation processes and access to consular assistance.
Particular attention was given to addressing challenges faced by migrant workers in sectors such as construction, agriculture and service industries, where labour mobility between the two Southeast Asian nations has long been significant.
Thailand remains a primary destination for migrant workers from Myanmar, with millions employed across various industries.
Ensuring legal status, fair wages and workplace safety has been a continuing priority for authorities on both sides.
The Ottawa meeting provided an opportunity for diplomatic representatives to review existing frameworks and explore mechanisms to enhance communication between labour agencies and embassies.
Officials discussed the need to streamline verification procedures and expand awareness campaigns aimed at reducing vulnerability to exploitation or irregular employment arrangements.
Both ambassadors reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative solutions grounded in international labour standards and mutual respect for national laws.
The engagement reflects a broader pattern of regional dialogue on migrant labour governance, as Southeast Asian economies seek to balance labour market needs with stronger worker protections.
Diplomatic sources indicated that follow-up consultations may be held to translate the discussions into practical measures benefiting migrant communities.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing readiness to deepen cooperation to ensure that migrant workers are treated with dignity and have reliable access to legal and social support systems wherever they are employed.
