FM Jilani stresses upon ECO intra-regional trade growth
Pakistan
FM reaffirmed Pakistan's resolve to collective progress and prosperity of the people of the region.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani has called for promoting dialogue and diplomacy instead of accentuating conflicts and divisions in the world.
He was addressing the 27th ECO Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Azerbaijan on Tuesday.
Highlighting the need for peace and respect for cultural and civilizational diversity in the world, he emphasized on putting an end to wars and illegal occupations to achieve this goal.
The Foreign Minister said Pakistan not only provides avenues for regular interaction, close cooperation, and strengthening of ties in the region but also remains committed to pursue the initiatives envisaged by the Organization in future.
He reaffirmed Pakistan's resolve to collective progress and prosperity of the people of the region.
The Foreign Minister underscored the need to increase regional trade, strengthen connectivity and promote tourism in line with 'ECO Vision 2025'.
He urged all ECO members to prioritize the early operationalization of ECO preferential Trade Agreement to benefit from true potential of enhanced economic interaction and trade linkages in the region.
Speaking about the threat of climate change, the Foreign Minister reiterated the need to develop a time-bound, well-funded, and strategically robust mechanism within the region to tackle environmental issues. He also stressed on timely transition to green economy for a safe environment and future.
About Afghanistan, the Foreign Minister said constructive engagement with the interim Afghan government is the only key to sustainable peace and progress in that country which is crucial for peace and stability of the whole region. He added that Pakistan looks forward to working closely with other ECO member states towards this end.
