The Congressional Pakistan Caucus has praised the Punjab government for modernising the province’s brick kiln industry, highlighting its role in eliminating bonded labour and improving economic opportunities for workers.
In a letter to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Congressmen Thomas Suozzi and Jack Bergman appreciated Punjab’s efforts to address environmental concerns while transforming labour practices in the brick kiln sector.
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The lawmakers cited the US State Department’s 2022 Trafficking in Persons Report, which notes over 4.5 million Pakistanis remain trapped in the peshgi system, an entrenched form of bonded labour.
They stressed that mechanising brick kilns not only protects workers but also strengthens Punjab’s appeal to foreign investors, especially American businesses seeking ethical and sustainable partnerships.
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The caucus emphasised that these reforms could boost bilateral economic relations, improve compliance with international standards, and position Punjab as a pilot province for similar initiatives nationwide.
Finally, US lawmakers reaffirmed their support for ending bonded labour and encouraged Punjab’s leadership to seek assistance whenever necessary, underlining the importance of continued reforms for long-term social and economic progress.