FM Ishaq Dar meets ECO, OIC chiefs

ISLAMABAD:

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held separate meetings with the secretaries-general of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Sunday, discussing regional cooperation, economic integration and matters of mutual interest.

During his meeting with ECO Secretary General Dr Asad Majeed Khan on the sidelines of the 30th meeting of the ECO Council of Ministers in Islamabad, Dar underscored the importance of strengthening regional cooperation, connectivity and economic integration among member states.

He highlighted Pakistan's priorities during its upcoming chairmanship under the theme "Reviving Regionalism for a Resilient ECO" and reaffirmed commitment to hosting the ECO Summit in 2027.

Dr Khan appreciated Pakistan's arrangements, hospitality and coordination for the 30th ECO-COM and congratulated the country on its upcoming chairmanship of the ECO in 2027. Dar also appreciated the ECO Secretariat's efforts to advance the organisation's agenda and support Pakistan's priorities.

Both sides reaffirmed the importance of close coordination during Pakistan's chairmanship to ensure effective implementation of agreed initiatives and advance shared goals of regional development and prosperity.

In his separate meeting with OIC Secretary General Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, Dar welcomed the latter on his first visit to Islamabad since assuming office and reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to strengthening the OIC as a unified and effective voice of the Muslim Ummah.

He assured the OIC secretary-general of Pakistan's continued support and cooperation in advancing the organisation's objectives. The OIC chief appreciated Pakistan's diplomatic efforts during the Iran-US conflict to promote regional peace and stability.

Ahmed also commended Pakistan's active role in the organisation, including its contributions through COMSTECH to promoting scientific and technological cooperation among member states.