Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar has called for a strengthened economic collaboration among member countries of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) to unlock the full potential of trade, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
Speaking at the 16th ECO Summit in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Kakar emphasized the need for collective efforts and accelerated reforms to achieve the organization’s objectives, aiming for significant economic and peace dividends.
Kakar stated, “It is crucial for us to work collectively and diligently to realize the goals and objectives of the organization.” He highlighted the importance of discussions to expand the share in global and intra-region trade, focusing on reducing barriers, enhancing infrastructure, and formulating environmentally friendly and sustainable policies, in addition to addressing poverty reduction.
Applauding the ECO’s corridor-based approach, such as the Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan-Afghanistan-Iran and Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul corridors, Kakar expressed optimism that integrated transport projects would play a vital role in promoting trade and connectivity.
The Economic Cooperation Organization comprises Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Iran, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, with a mission to enhance development and facilitate trade in the region.
