At ECO meeting, Dar voices concern over regional, Middle East security situation

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar voiced concern over the current security situation in the region and the Middle East during a recent ECO meeting in New York. He emphasized Pakistan's commitment to resolving disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law. Dar highlighted that Pakistan's leadership has been actively engaged with neighboring countries to achieve peaceful outcomes, which have led to tangible progress. He stressed the importance of consolidating these gains and preserving them.

The ECO region, spanning approximately eight million square kilometers and home to nearly half a billion people, has immense potential but currently accounts for only about 2.2% of global trade, with intra-regional trade making up around 8% of total regional trade. Dar called for stronger political commitment and institutional reforms within the ECO to respond effectively to challenges such as climate change, which is putting pressure on water and food security, and the emergence of connectivity corridors.

He proposed the transformation of the ECO region into a more integrated, dynamic, and competitive region within the Global South.

In terms of connectivity and transit, Dar stressed the need to strengthen transport networks, harmonize customs procedures, and improve transit systems. He highlighted the potential of key corridors linking Central Asia with ports on the Arabian Sea, and Pakistan's readiness to act as a gateway for the region. Dar also called for the accelerated implementation of the ECO Trade Agreement to create a functional and digitally enabled Free Trade Area, expanding market access and promoting innovation.

Climate change, Dar noted, poses a significant threat to water security, agriculture, and livelihoods in the region, calling for stronger cooperation on disaster risk reduction, climate-resilient infrastructure, sustainable energy, and adaptation.