ISLAMABAD: Secretary General of Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) Dr Asad Majeed Khan held a high-level discussion with federal ministers on Tuesday, focusing on a roadmap to enhance regional trade and tourism among member nations.
Dr Khan met Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Commerce Minister Jam Kamal to discuss strengthening regional economic cooperation and initiatives to promote trade, commerce and tourism among the 10 ECO member countries.
An official announcement stated that Dr Khan briefed the finance minister on the ECO’s profile and strategic role in fostering regional economic cooperation.
He emphasised the importance of regional trade and connectivity, especially with emerging trade corridors and markets in the region. Both leaders agreed on the necessity of further strengthening regional trade and connectivity, which are crucial for advancing the economic development of member countries.
Dr Khan also highlighted the progress made by the ECO since his appointment, focusing on enhancing trade and tourism through increased engagement with member countries. He proposed ways to make the organisation more robust and dynamic, ensuring it continues to effectively drive regional trade and cooperation. He stressed the significance of mutual collaboration in achieving shared goals in trade, commerce, and tourism across the region.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb assured Dr Khan of his ministry’s full support for various ECO initiatives aimed at advancing regional cooperation. The minister reaffirmed the commitment to deeper engagement with the organisation, ensuring regular representation from the Ministry of Finance in future discussions and initiatives related to regional trade and connectivity.
Dr Khan also met Jam Kamal to discuss avenues for strengthening regional economic cooperation and enhancing trade ties among ECO member states.
The commerce minister expressed appreciation for ECO’s role in promoting regional connectivity and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to advancing shared economic goals within the organization’s framework. Dr Khan briefed the minister on the organisation’s ongoing initiatives and upcoming agenda.
Published in Dawn, April 9th, 2025
