A statement from the Bangladesh mission in Geneva announced that Bangladesh has been chosen as a titular member of the governing body of the International Labour Organisation for the 2008-11 term. Bangladesh will represent the Asia Pacific Group of countries within the ILO. The elections for 18 new titular members took place at the international labour conference in Geneva, where the ILO governing body, which consists of 56 regular members, was discussed. The statement noted that the governing body includes members from governments, employers, and workers to reflect the unique tripartite structure of the ILO. Acting labour and employment secretary Mahfuzul Haque, currently in Geneva, explained to bdnews24.com that the election demonstrates the international community's backing of the country's commitment to various ILO agreements. Haque emphasized that as a member of ILO GB, Bangladesh will have a significant role in safeguarding the rights of workers both domestically and internationally. He also mentioned that Bangladesh is currently involved in implementing several projects with ILO aimed at eradicating child labor, ensuring safe working conditions, developing guidelines for the ship-breaking industry, and protecting workers from climate change-related disasters. Haque expressed confidence that following the elections, Bangladesh will be able to undertake more projects with ILO support to advance the causes of the labor community.