Samarkand – 3 June 2026
General of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), Dr. Asad M. Khan, met today in Samarkand (Uzbekistan) with Ms. Shezra Mansab, Minister of State for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination of Pakistan, to discuss enhancing regional collaboration on environmental challenges, climate justice, and improving the ECO’s internal coordination mechanisms.
The meeting acknowledged Pakistan’s historic and proactive role in global climate change discussions, including its notable proposals and advocacy for developing countries. With Pakistan assuming the Chairmanship of ECO for a two-year term, the opportunity was underscored to leverage this leadership to host the ECO events, thereby advancing the regional environmental agenda on a larger stage.
ECO Secretary General highly appreciated Miniser Mansab for her insightful proposals at the 6th Ministerial Meeting on Environment in Samarkand. Both sides emphasized the critical need for ECO Member States to unite on pressing climate issues. They highlighted the importance of forging a common voice on climate justice and climate finance, particularly given the disproportionate impact of climate change on the ECO region. Strengthening coordination of ECO positions at international forums, including upcoming COP meetings, was identified as a key priority to ensure that the region’s concerns are effectively represented.
The meeting concluded with a mutual resolve to translate these discussions into concrete action, reinforcing ECO’s role as a platform for effective regional cooperation on climate and environmental sustainability.
