Astana — April 24, 2026
At the Regional Environmental Summit held in Astana’s Congress Hall, Secretary General of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), Dr. Asad M. Khan, gave a live interview to the state television channel 24KZ, outlining key priorities for regional sustainability and energy cooperation. He emphasized that Central Asia already possesses a shared electricity grid infrastructure, and unlocking its full potential depends on stronger political coordination. Key initiatives such as regional green energy corridors and the ECO Regional Electricity Market aim to enhance energy security, accelerate clean energy transition, and improve cross-border integration.
Dr. Khan also highlighted the need for a balanced energy transition that considers the region’s reliance on fossil fuels while scaling up renewable energy investments. He underscored opportunities in green hydrogen development, regional water management cooperation, and attracting international climate finance through unified platforms like the RESCUE initiative. Stressing the importance of collective action, he called on ECO member states to strengthen collaboration, harmonize policies, and present a unified regional voice to address environmental challenges and secure sustainable development.
