Awaza, Turkmenistan – 6 August 2025
ECO Secretary General Dr. Asad Khan delivered a statement today at the High-Level Thematic Roundtable 2: “Seizing the transformative potential of trade, trade facilitation, and regional integration for landlocked developing countries”, held during the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) in Awaza, Turkmenistan.
In his remarks, the Secretary General highlighted the progress and challenges of landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), with particular emphasis on the 7 ECO member countries which are landlocked. Dr. Asad Khan emphasized the need for a holistic approach, including closer collaboration with the private sector, and stronger mechanisms to finance regional projects. Priority actions include building regional supply chains, promoting cross-border e-commerce, enhancing transport-tourism-trade linkages, and fostering innovation through digitalization and technology. He also underscored the importance of reliable data, cooperation with international financial institutions to mitigate sanctions, and inclusive development by investing in youth and women.
ECO is will accelerate WTO accession, implement the TIR transit system, invest in youth and women, and align its Strategic Goals with the Awaza Programme of Action to drive sustainable growth through partnership.
The Secretary General reaffirmed ECO’s commitment to creating a more integrated, dynamic, and competitive region.
