Islamabad – July 30-31, 2024
The 9th ECOTA Cooperation Council Meeting, hosted by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, successfully concluded in Islamabad. This two-day hybrid event brought together delegates from the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Republic of Tajikistan and the Republic of Türkiye, as well as a delegation from the ECO Secretariat led by Deputy Secretary General Seyed Mohsen Esperi.
Addressing the participants, Mr. Esperi emphasized the necessity of fully implementing and potentially expanding the ECO Trade Agreement to establish a Free Trade Area (FTA). He highlighted the significant benefits of trade liberalization, including enhanced trade facilitation, increased investment and sustainable economic development.
In his remarks, Mr. Jawad Paul, Pakistan’s Federal Secretary for Commerce and Industry, underscored the importance of the meeting in operationalizing the ECOTA Agreement, addressing challenges and strategizing for future growth. He stressed the vital role of collective commitment and cooperation in fostering a prosperous future for the regional community.
Chaired by Ms. Maria Kazi, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce of Pakistan, the meeting reaffirmed the essential role of the ECOTA Agreement in boosting intra-regional trade among ECO Member States. Key discussions focused on tariff reductions, quality infrastructure studies and Türkiye’s proposal to host the 5th Ministerial Meeting of Commerce and Foreign Trade in early 2025. The meeting marked a significant breakthrough, as ECOTA Contracting Parties agreed to revise the Agreement, aiming to create a fully implementable instrument for all Member States, thereby unlocking its transformative potential for a more prosperous region.
Participants also extended their congratulations to the Islamic Republic of Iran on the election of its new president, H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian. They expressed optimism for his continued leadership in advancing regional integration and fostering economic collaboration among ECO Member States.
