ECO sets example of regional cooperation: Pakistan PM

The Economic Cooperation Organisation summit here on Wednesday is aimed at enhancing regional integration, connectivity and economic prosperity, Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said.

At the opening of the 13th ECO summit here, Nawaz Sharif laid emphasis on greater connectivity and trade links between the 10 member-countries.

"The ECO region is rich in resources and capabilities. It is time to make momentous advancements," the Prime Minister said.

Sharif said 'Vision 2025' will provide achievable opportunities for the region. "ECO sets example of regional cooperation."

"The CPEC is being recognised as catalyst for regional stability," he said, adding that Pakistan's current economic performance was living up to expectations.

Representatives of member-countries, including five Presidents, three Prime Ministers, and a Deputy Prime Minister, are attending the summit being hosted by Pakistan.

The guest countries said they were committed to peace and prosperity in the region.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said it was important for member-countries to communicate with each other, and added that the region could benefit from the collective strengths of its people.

Turkmenistan President Qurban Ali said the ECO summit was an important platform to hold constructive dialogue.

Kyrgyzstan Prime Minister Sooronbay Jeenbekov said that promotion of science and technology was important to promote peace.

The summit, taking place after a gap of five years, coincides with the 25th anniversary of the expansion of the bloc established in 1985.

The theme of the summit is 'Connectivity for Regional Prosperity'.

Discussions at the meeting will focus on prospects of cooperation in the fields of connectivity, trade, transport and energy.

--IANS

py/vt