Tashkent, 10 November 2023 (TDI): Anwar-Ul-Haq Kakar, Interim Prime Minister of Pakistan, on Thursday addressed the 16th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) being held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

The Economic Cooperation Organization summit was a two-day event between the 8th and 9th of November, during which the ECO member states participated to promote sustainable economic development of the region and to analyze their commitment to the ECO Vision 2025.

During his speech to the Summit, the Prime Minister underscored Pakistan’s continued support and commitment to ECO’s vision for regional growth and development.

He also underlined the importance of regional growth and development between the member states specifically for the promotion of trade, investment, connectivity, development of transport, communications infrastructure, and sustainable economic development.

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The Prime Minister added that the corridor-based approach of ECO was critical for enhanced regional connectivity.

He also said that successful materialization of the Transit Transport Framework Agreement (TTFA) into projects such as Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul Rail and Road Corridor would unleash the economic potential of the entire region.

The Interim Premier also condemned in the strongest terms the incessant and lethal bombardment of Gaza by the Israeli Occupation Forces.

He specifically criticized the killings of women and children and targeted attacks on the hospitals of Gaza.

The Prime Minister called for the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian question in accordance with the relevant UNSC and OIC Resolutions.

He also highlighted on the growing intolerance, xenophobia, and islamophobia and invited international attention for building political and legal deterrence against the abhorrent rise of Islamophobia while fostering mutual respect, interfaith harmony, and peaceful coexistence.

The Prime Minister was also engaged in meaningful dialogue with the leaders of member states on the sidelines of the Summit.

Following the successful participation in the summit, the Premier returned to Islamabad on Thursday after completing his two-day official visit.