ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is set to depart for Iran tomorrow to attend the 28th meeting of the Council of Ministers of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).

The summit will focus on regional cooperation, connectivity, and economic integration among member states. During his address, Dar is expected to reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to the ECO charter, emphasizing the importance of stronger regional ties for mutual development. He will highlight the potential for enhanced connectivity through the expansion of rail and road networks, the liberalization of visa regimes, and the simplification of border procedures.

These initiatives, according to Dar, could significantly boost trade, travel, and economic cooperation among ECO member countries. Furthermore, Dar will express Pakistan’s concerns regarding the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, stressing the threat they pose to regional peace and security. He is likely to call for collective efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote stability in the region, which is crucial for the economic prosperity of ECO countries. In a significant move, Dar will also sign the Charter for the ECO Clean Energy Center, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions in the region. This initiative aims to foster cooperation in clean and renewable energy sources, addressing pressing environmental challenges and energy needs within ECO member states. On the sidelines of the meeting, Dar is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with various participating ministers and dignitaries.

These meetings will provide an opportunity for Pakistan to strengthen its relationships with other ECO members and explore avenues for deeper collaboration in economic and regional matters. The Deputy Prime Minister’s visit underscores Pakistan’s active role in fostering regional cooperation and its commitment to addressing shared challenges through dialogue and collaboration.