On May 7th, 2024, the ECO Secretariat organized a Virtual Technical Consultation Session on the Implementation of ECO Trade Agreement (ECOTA), chaired by Ms. Maria Kazi, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The session aimed to foster discussions on implementation of ECOTA, identify impediments, explore potential solutions, and chart the way forward with trade related activities.
Technical experts from the Islamic Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Republic of Tajikistan, Republic of Türkiye, and Turkmenistan (as a non-ECOTA party) participated in the session, alongside a delegation from the ECO Secretariat led by Deputy Secretary General Mr. Mohsen Esperi.
Mr. Mohsen Esperi emphasized the importance of embracing a new approach that transcends past limitations and embraces innovation, pragmatism, and collective action. He expressed optimism that this renewed focus would enable effective resolution of existing challenges and drive significant progress, unlocking the full potential of ECOTA for the benefit of the entire region.
Ms. Maria Kazi reiterated her commitment to strengthening regional cooperation by removing technical barriers to trade and emphasized the importance of a mutual and practical approach to move forward, one that addresses past limitations and provides a roadmap for future orientations.
The Trade and Investment Directorate of the ECO Secretariat delivered two comprehensive presentations during the session, which covered operationalization and status of ECOTA implementation, follow-up decisions from the 8th ECOTA Cooperation Council Meeting, pending actions, and potential pathways for the full implementation of ECOTA.
