ECO secretaries and focal representatives are preparing the agenda for Monday’s foreign ministers’ meeting, with regional trade and connectivity expected to dominate discussions.
ISLAMABAD: A key meeting of Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) secretaries and focal representatives began in Islamabad on Sunday, November 15, to finalise the agenda for the organisation’s foreign ministers’ meeting scheduled for Monday.
The preparatory meeting is expected to lay the groundwork for discussions on regional economic cooperation, trade expansion, energy partnerships and improved connectivity among member states, particularly efforts to connect Central Asian countries with international markets.
According to diplomatic sources, officials attending Sunday’s meeting will prepare the agenda for the high-level gathering of foreign ministers. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to participate in Monday’s meeting.
However, Afghanistan’s foreign minister has not been invited to attend the gathering, diplomatic sources said.
Regional trade promotion is expected to feature prominently in the discussions, alongside proposals to improve transportation networks and strengthen cooperation in the energy sector. Participants will also explore opportunities to develop trade routes and improve Central Asian countries’ access to international markets.
Connectivity is expected to remain a central theme as ECO member states seek to strengthen economic relationships, expand commercial opportunities and benefit from their geographical positions.
The organisation provides a regional platform for member countries to coordinate economic policies and pursue common interests through cooperation in trade, transportation, energy and other areas.
The Islamabad meetings are taking place amid growing attention to regional economic partnerships and cross-border connectivity as countries seek to diversify trade opportunities and improve access to international markets.
Monday’s foreign ministers’ meeting is expected to build on the discussions conducted by senior officials and identify potential areas for closer cooperation among ECO member states.
The outcome of the high-level discussions could help shape the organisation’s priorities for regional economic engagement, particularly in areas involving trade facilitation, transport infrastructure and energy cooperation.
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