Latest news with #17thECOSummit
Express Tribune
15 hours ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
ECO's way forward
Listen to article Attaining proactivity in regional cooperation is becoming a sine qua non as distractions continue to haunt geopolitics. The 17th ECO Summit in Azerbaijan's city of Khankendi took a leap forward as it called for buoying understanding among the member states to overcome bilateral frictions and ensure that geo-economics takes roots. Pakistan flagged the Iran-Israel war, the adamant attitude of India, especially the IWT's unilateral suspension, and the backlash of terrorism from Afghanistan as obstacles hampering regional serenity and development. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored that the 10-nation Eurasian bloc offers the 'best hope' for a unified response, and there should not be any looking back. Pakistan also underlined the necessity of quality development in relevance with climate change considerations. It also proposed developing low-emission corridors, ECO-wide carbon market platforms and a regional disaster resistance system. It's high time the cobweb of railways, roads and waterways, which have successfully been laid down across the region, came to benefit the common man in terms of employment, cheap products and a semblance of growth. So is the case with energy channels that are still in limbo, like the IP gas pipeline, TAPI, CASA-1000 and the trans-Afghan railway connectivity. The point that some of the states are mulling a 'military alliance' in the region has been promptly negated by Pakistan, as it hopes India will give up its confrontational policy and make SAARC a viable entity. Peace between Pakistan and India is indispensable if regional cooperation is to materialise. The potential could be gauged from the fact that according to SBP, imports from India totalled $211.5 million in the first 11 months of FY25; and in May alone when the conflict broke out, imports stood at $15 million. The India-based Global Trade Research Initiative has also reported recently that India's unofficial exports to Pakistan are estimated at $10 billion annually, routed primarily through Dubai, Colombo and Singapore. The need is to get it straight for the collective good of the region.
Express Tribune
a day ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
India can't turn off the tap, warns PM
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif meets Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi, Azerbaijan. PHOTO: ONLINE Listen to article Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday urged the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) member states to deepen collaboration in response to the pressing regional and global challenges, particularly climate change and geopolitical instability. Addressing the 17th ECO summit, the prime minister underscored the urgent need for collective action as ECO member states struggle with the severe consequences of climate change, from melting glaciers and desertification to extreme weather events and declining agricultural productivity. "These challenges threaten the food security and livelihoods of millions. Pakistan remains among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change," he said, recalling the catastrophic 2022 floods that displaced over 33 million people in Pakistan. The prime minister also drew attention to what he called the "weaponization of water" by India, referencing New Delhi's violations of the Indus Waters Treaty and the recent ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration. "This violation is completely unacceptable. Indus waters are a lifeline for Pakistan's 240 million people. India's actions amount to aggression." He categorically said that under no circumstances, India could not be allowed to pursue this dangerous path that will amount to an act of aggression against people of Pakistan. Just last week, he said several lives were tragically lost in the affected districts of Pakistan. "Pakistan on its part has undertaken a series of climate related policy initiatives and is aggressively pursuing of 4F plans focusing on resilience, recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction," he added. The prime minister said in this regard Pakistan proposed the development of low emissions corridors and regional disaster resilience system. "A dedicated framework to mobilize climate finance along with regional clean energy corridors and eco-tourism initiatives can further drive inclusive sustainable growth creating green jobs, especially for youth and women and supporting livelihoods," he said. Condemning the Israel's recent strike on Iran, the prime minister called it "unlawful, unjustified and uncalled for," and expressed deep condolences to the Iranian people. "Pakistan strongly condemns this act of Israeli aggression We pray for a speedy recovery of our injured brothers and sisters in Iran." Furthermore, he said the unprovoked and reckless Indian hostility directed towards Pakistan after an unfortunate incident in the Indian-Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) was yet another attempt to destabilize regional peace. "The world witnessed the steadfast resolve of our valiant armed forces under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir," the prime minister said. He also appreciated the support and solidarity extended to Pakistan by the brotherly ECO members states in the aftermath of Indian aggression earlier this year. He strongly condemned the Israel's barbarism in Gaza saying, "Pakistan stands firmly against those who perpetrated barbaric act against innocent people anywhere in the world whether in Gaza or IIOJK or Iran". On the economic front, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need to operationalize long-pending agreements under ECO Vision 2025, especially the ECO Trade Agreement (ECOTA) and transport corridors, connecting member states. He referenced ECO's origins as the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD), a partnership between Pakistan, Iran, and Turkey in the 1960s, as a historic blueprint for present-day integration. "Promotion of trade and investment is key to achieving common goals of regional connectivity, energy security, and economic growth." The prime minister thanked ECO member states for designating Lahore as the ECO Tourism Capital for 2027, inviting all delegates to experience Pakistan's rich cultural heritage. "Lahore, the cultural heart of Pakistan, will enthrall all who visit us. We extend a warm invitation to all member states." Turkish President Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met with President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi and discussed matters of mutual interest. The two leaders engaged in a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and exchanged views on key regional developments. The two leaders reiterated their resolve and commitment to bringing about a meaningful progress in relations between the two countries, in all important sectors. Both leaders emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation in trade, defense, energy, connectivity, and investment sectors. To this end, the two countries agreed to exchange high level delegations so as to ensure early finalization of the understandings reached between the two leaders. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering commitment to working closely with Turkiye in advancing their shared goals of peace, stability, and sustainable development throughout the region. Iran president Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met with President of Iran Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian wherein he reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering solidarity with the people and Government of Iran. During the meeting held on the sidelines of 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi city of Azerbaijan, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan's strong commitment to continue working closely with Iran for peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy. During the meeting, both leaders reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation across all areas and expressed satisfaction over the progress made on decisions taken during their last meeting for further strengthening of Pakistan-Iran relations. The two leaders also discussed the evolving regional situation in the wake of the Israel's illegitimate aggression against Iran. Prime Minister Shehbaz appreciated President Pezeshkian's leadership and lauded Iran's decision to reach a ceasefire during recent crisis. President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan's strong diplomatic support to Iran, including at the international forums, during the crisis and thanked him for Pakistan's vital role in de-escalating the conflict. The prime minister requested the Iranian President to convey his warm greetings and good wishes to Supreme Leader of Iran Ali Khamenei. Azerbaijan president Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the sidelines of Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Summit in Khankendi, Azerbaijan. During the meeting, the two leaders agreed to enhance their cooperation in the fields of trade and investment while expressing satisfaction over the progress made regarding the investment prospects. Both leaders reiterated their resolve to strengthen the economic partnership, especially Azerbaijan's investment in Pakistan. The prime minister is visiting Azerbaijan to lead Pakistan's delegation in the 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi, Azerbaijan, held on 3-4 July, 2025. On the sidelines of the Summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a productive bilateral meeting with the President of Azerbaijan where he congratulated him for hosting the 17th ECO Summit in an exemplary manner. The prime minister also conveyed his gratitude to President Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan for the gracious hospitality extended to him and his delegation during his recent visit to Lachin, Azerbaijan, from May 27-29, 2025. The prime minister thanked President Ilham on Azerbaijan's steadfast support extended to Pakistan during the recent conflict with India. He stated that Pakistan had also extended consistent support to Azerbaijan in challenging times. The prime minister reaffirmed that the recent interactions between the leadership of both countries had helped in making the relationship ever stronger. He also reiterated his invitation to President Ilham to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.
Business Recorder
a day ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Regional peace: PM reaffirms commitment to work closely with Iran
KHANKENDI (Azerbaijan): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met with President of Iran Dr Masoud Pezeshkian wherein he reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering solidarity with the people and Government of Iran. During the meeting held on the sidelines of 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi city of Azerbaijan, the PM reaffirmed Pakistan's strong commitment to continue working closely with Iran for peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy. During the meeting, both leaders reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation across all areas and expressed satisfaction over the progress made on decisions taken during their last meeting for further strengthening of Pakistan-Iran relations. The two leaders also discussed the evolving regional situation in the wake of the Israel's illegitimate aggression against Iran. PM Shehbaz appreciated President Pezeshkian's leadership and lauded Iran's decision to reach a ceasefire during recent crisis. President Pezeshkian appreciated Pakistan's strong diplomatic support to Iran, including at the international forums, during the crisis and thanked him for Pakistan's vital role in de-escalating the conflict.
Business Recorder
a day ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Calls for regional unity: At ECO summit PM condemns Israeli, Indian aggression
KHANKENDI: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday urged the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) member states to deepen collaboration in response to the pressing regional and global challenges, particularly climate change and geopolitical instability. Addressing 17th ECO Summit, the prime minister underscored the urgent need for collective action as ECO member states struggle with the severe consequences of climate change, from melting glaciers and desertification to extreme weather events and declining agricultural productivity. 'These challenges threaten the food security and livelihoods of millions. Pakistan remains among the top 10 countries most vulnerable to climate change,' he said, recalling the catastrophic 2022 floods that displaced over 33 million people in Pakistan. PM Shehbaz departs for Azerbaijan to attend ECO summit Just last week, he said several lives were tragically lost in the affected districts of Pakistan. 'Pakistan on its part has undertaken a series of climate related policy initiatives and is aggressively pursuing of 4F plans focusing on resilience, recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction,' he added. The prime minister said in this regard Pakistan proposed the development of low emissions corridors and regional disaster resilience system. 'A dedicated framework to mobilize climate finance along with regional clean energy corridors and eco-tourism initiatives can further drive inclusive sustainable growth creating green jobs, especially for youth and women and supporting livelihoods,' he said. Condemning the Israel's recent strike on Iran, the prime minister called it 'unlawful, unjustified and uncalled for,' and expressed deep condolences to the Iranian people. 'Pakistan strongly condemns this act of Israeli aggression… We pray for a speedy recovery of our injured brothers and sisters in Iran.' Furthermore, he said the unprovoked and reckless Indian hostility directed towards Pakistan after an unfortunate incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) was yet another attempt to destabilize regional peace. 'The world witnessed the steadfast resolve of our valiant Armed Forces under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir,' the prime minister said. He also appreciated the support and solidarity extended to Pakistan by the brotherly ECO members states in the aftermath of Indian aggression earlier this year. He strongly condemned the Israel's barbarism in Gaza saying 'Pakistan stands firmly against those who perpetrated barbaric act against innocent people anywhere in the world whether in Gaza or IIOJK or Iran'. The prime minister also drew attention to what he called the 'weaponization of water' by India, referencing New Delhi's violations of the Indus Waters Treaty and the recent ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration. 'This violation is completely unacceptable. The Indus waters are a lifeline for Pakistan's 240 million people. India's actions amount to aggression.'
Express Tribune
a day ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
No military alliance in the works: FO
Foreign Office spokesperson Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan on Friday highlighted Pakistan's growing diplomatic profile at international and regional forums, including its assumption of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Presidency, participation in the 17th ECO Summit, and ongoing efforts for humanitarian and legal accountability in the region. In a comprehensive weekly news briefing, the spokesperson underlined, "Pakistan assumes the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council this July with a deep sense of responsibility and purpose. Our approach will remain anchored in the principles of the UN Charter, multilateralism, and international law." The spokesperson announced that Pakistan will convene two high-level signature events including an open debate on "Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes" on July 22, and a briefing on "UN Cooperation with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)" on July 24. Additionally, Pakistan will preside over the quarterly open debate on the Question of Palestine on July 23, all chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, he added. "These meetings reflect Pakistan's intent to serve as a bridge between the Council and the broader UN membership," the spokesperson added. Commenting on any trilateral cooperation with China and Bangladesh, the spokesperson described it as routine and focused on regional development, while dismissing reports of a SAARC alternative as speculative. The visit of Pakistani military officials to Bangladesh, including Rohingya areas, he said, was characterised as part of ongoing cooperation with no change in Pakistan's policy on Rohingya Muslims. He confirmed that Pakistan was not forming any military alliance with other regional countries, including China, Russia, Türkiye, Bangladesh or Afghanistan. The spokesperson dismissed speculation on Pakistan joining the Abraham Accords, reaffirming its unwavering support for a two-state solution and full Palestinian statehood. He mentioned that Pakistan expressed disappointment over the SAARC summit being stalled by one member. Islamabad reaffirmed its commitment to SAARC and readiness to host the next summit, he added. The spokesperson also welcomed a Supplemental Award issued on June 27 by the Court of Arbitration in the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric dispute between Pakistan and India. "The court reaffirmed its competence to continue proceedings despite India's unilateral attempt to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. This Award vindicates Pakistan's legal and moral stance," he stated. "We call upon India to resume normal functioning under the Treaty and fully honor its international obligations." He said Pakistan rejected India's denial of the supplemental award by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), terming New Delhi's position "illegal" and lacking legitimacy under international law. The spokesperson emphasized that the Indus Waters Treaty remains operative and the award reaffirms Pakistan's stance. On whether a formal communication has been made to India, Ambassador Khan noted that technical matters were being handled by the Ministry of Water.
