Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while addressing the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Summit in Khankandi, called for stronger regional cooperation, urgent climate action, and unity against destabilizing forces.
In his keynote speech on Friday, PM Shehbaz congratulated Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev for successfully hosting the summit and expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality in the historic and beautiful city of Khankandi. He also lauded the leadership of Kazakhstan’s president as the current ECO chairman for his contributions to regional collaboration.
Highlighting the rapidly evolving global technological landscape, the PM said, “We are entering a new era of interdependence and knowledge expansion. Technological development is indispensable for regional cooperation and shared prosperity. We are proud to join the collective efforts of member countries in the development process.”
The theme of the summit, ‘Sustainable and Climate Resilient Future’, was described by PM Shehbaz as both timely and crucial. He emphasized that ECO member countries are grappling with the severe impacts of climate change, including melting glaciers, rising temperatures and devastating floods. These environmental challenges have put food security and livelihoods of millions at risk, he added.
“Pakistan is among the top 10 countries most affected by climate change,” he said. “The catastrophic floods of 2022 affected over 33 million people, causing massive destruction. Even today, flash floods continue to wreak havoc across our districts.”
PM Shehbaz outlined Pakistan’s four-point recovery and reconstruction policy and stressed the need for activating climate financing to ensure sustainable growth. He also called for enhanced measures for energy conservation, the promotion of ecotourism, and collective action to deal with challenges faced due to climate change.
In a significant policy proposal, he suggested the creation of a Low Emission Corridor within the region to collectively address environmental challenges.
Strong condemnation of regional aggression
PM Shehbaz used the platform to strongly denounce Israel’s recent attacks on Iran, labelling them as “illegal and illogical,” and part of broader efforts to create instability in the region. He also slammed India’s “irresponsible” actions after an “unfortunate incident” in occupied Kashmir, accusing New Delhi of jeopardizing regional peace.
He said the world witnessed the steadfast determination of the Pakistani people, as the forces responded to Indian provocation with exemplary courage and professionalism. “Our brave forces, led by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, defended the homeland against Indian aggression,” he stressed.
“India continues to act irresponsibly, weaponizing water and challenging the Indus Waters Treaty,” he stated. “The International Court of Arbitration has rightfully rejected India’s position. Any unilateral suspension of the treaty is an act of aggression against Pakistan’s people.”
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for oppressed communities in Palestine, occupied Kashmir, and Iran, adding that “Israel’s siege of Gaza is a man-made humanitarian catastrophe. Millions are being denied basic lifelines.”
Recognition and regional connectivity
The premier expressed pride over ECO’s decision to declare Lahore as the ECO Tourism Capital for 2027, calling it a testament to Pakistan’s cultural and natural heritage.
He also emphasized the importance of promoting the transport corridor between Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan, stating that the initiative could greatly enhance trade, connectivity, and regional prosperity.
“Together, we must turn this region into a hub of peace, development, and climate resilience,” the Prime Minister concluded.
Shehbaz meets Azerbaijani president
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.
During the high-level meeting, PM Shehbaz congratulated President Aliyev on successfully hosting the ECO Summit and thanked him for Azerbaijan’s continued support to Pakistan, especially during critical times of tension with India.
“Azerbaijan has always stood by Pakistan on important issues, particularly those related to our dispute with India,” he said. “In return, Pakistan has consistently supported Azerbaijan in times of need.”
The meeting focused heavily on enhancing trade and investment ties, with both leaders expressing satisfaction over the progress made in mutual investment initiatives. The PM welcomed Azerbaijan’s interest in investing in Pakistan, describing it as a positive development for both countries’ economic growth.
“We are committed to deepening our economic partnership, and Azerbaijan’s willingness to invest in Pakistan is a welcome step forward,” said PM Shehbaz.
Leadership-level engagement, both leaders agreed, has played a vital role in strengthening political and economic ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. The Prime Minister also reiterated his invitation for President Ilham Aliyev to undertake an official visit to Pakistan in the near future, emphasizing that such exchanges would further enhance bilateral cooperation.
