Traveling to Geneva after attending the 3rd UN Oceans Conference in Nice, France, President Luis Abinader received a prestigious recognition on 11 June 2025 during the 113th International Labor Organization (ILO) Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, highlighting his unwavering commitment to the rights, dignity, and welfare of the nation’s workforce.
The President was accompanied by First Lady Raquel Arbaje, Labor Minister Eddy Olivares, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Switzerland Pablo Valentín, Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Switzerland Iván Ogando,
The honor, presented by representatives from Dominican trade unions and international organizations representing over 180 million workers globally, acknowledged President Abinader’s government for strengthening social dialogue and promoting human and labor development in the country.
Gabriel del Río, president of Human Development at the Autonomous Classist Trade Union Confederation (CASC), Pepe Abreu from the National Unity Trade Union Confederation (CNUS), and Jacobo Ramos of the National Confederation of Dominican Workers (CNTD) bestowed the award during the annual forum of the Global Coalition for Social Justice.
Praise for President Abinader’s social justice and humanitarian qualities was unanimous, with speakers highlighting his tangible improvements for Dominican workers and citizens.
The ceremony also featured representatives from international trade unions, including Jordania Ureña, deputy general secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), and Cicero Pereira Da Silva, education and training secretary of the Inter-American Regional Organization of Workers (ORIT), both representing over 180 million workers worldwide.
Prominent figures from the ILO included Maria Paz, principal counselor for Latin America for the director; Maria Helena André, director of the Workers’ Activities Office (ACTRAV); and Luca Bormioli, director of Meetings, Documents, and Official Relations.
Dominican business sector representatives, led by César Dargan, vice president of the National Business Council (Conep); Mario Estuardo Pujols Ortiz, executive vice president of the Dominican Industries Association; and Laura Peña Izquierdo, president of the Dominican Business Confederation (Copardom), also attended.
In his acceptance speech, President Abinader expressed gratitude and renewed his commitment to advancing the country, implementing best practices, enhancing the quality of life for all Dominicans, and strengthening democracy. He emphasized the strong relationships between his administration, labor unions, and business sectors as key to successful agreements and understanding.
“Dialogue doesn’t mean there are no debates,” President Abinader stated, adding that it provides a platform to discuss differences and reach consensus. He defended the recent wage agreements, attributing these to a responsible and socially committed collaboration between labor unions and businesses.
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Presidency
Hoy
12 June 2025