Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged member states of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) to step up efforts for stronger regional cooperation to tackle the rising threats of climate change and geopolitical tensions.
Addressing the 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi, Azerbaijan, on Friday, PM Shehbaz highlighted the urgent need for united action in these challenging times.
He emphasized that ECO countries are already feeling the harsh impact of environmental crises such as melting glaciers, desertification, unpredictable weather, and declining agricultural output. These shared challenges, he said, demand a “deeper collaboration among ECO members” to secure a sustainable future for the region.
Stressing Pakistan’s vulnerability, the prime minister recalled the devastating floods of 2022 that displaced over 33 million people in Pakistan. He proposed the creation of low-emission corridors and a regional carbon market to boost climate finance cooperation within the ECO framework.
In a proud moment for Pakistan, the prime minister thanked ECO members for naming Lahore the ECO Tourism Capital for 2027. “Lahore, the cultural heart of Pakistan, will enthrall all who visit. We warmly invite our ECO friends to experience Pakistan’s heritage,” he said.
Condemnations on regional conflicts
Beyond climate change, PM Shehbaz strongly condemned Israel’s recent strikes on Iran, calling them “unlawful, unjustified, and uncalled for.” He offered heartfelt condolences to the Iranian people and wished a swift recovery for those injured.
Met with H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of Iran today on the sidelines of 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi.
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) July 4, 2025
We reviewed bilateral cooperation and also discussed the regional situation in the wake of the recent Israel’s illegitimate aggression.
Appreciated President… pic.twitter.com/B5JkuKYEKJ
The prime minister also took aim at India’s “reckless hostility” following the Pahalgam incident, warning against such provocations that threaten regional peace. He thanked ECO member states for standing by Pakistan against Indian aggression and accused New Delhi of weaponizing water resources by violating the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). “The Indus waters are a lifeline for Pakistan’s 240 million people. India’s actions are unacceptable aggression,” he stressed.
Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for innocent victims of violence worldwide, whether in Gaza, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), or Iran, denouncing what he termed as barbaric acts against humanity.
Strengthening bilateral ties
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Shehbaz held key bilateral meetings aimed at enhancing trade, energy cooperation, and regional security. In talks with Turkish President Erdogan, both leaders pledged meaningful progress in their strong partnership. Similarly, during his meeting with Iran's new President Masoud Pezeshkian, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace through dialogue and diplomacy.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of 17th ECO Summit being held in Khankendi, Azerbaijan. #PMShehbazInAzerbaijan#PMShehbazAtECO pic.twitter.com/TYsSZHgp25
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) July 4, 2025
Prime Minister Shehbaz and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev discussed boosting trade and investment ties, while expressing satisfaction over Azerbaijan’s investment in Pakistan, a partnership that both sides aim to deepen further. In another important meeting, he and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev agreed to expand cooperation in connectivity, energy, trade, and cultural exchanges.
Pleased to meet with my dear brother H.E. Ilham Aliyev @presidentaz, President of Azerbaijan, on the sidelines of the 17th ECO Summit in Khankendi.
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) July 4, 2025
Congratulated him on successfully hosting the Summit and lauded Azerbaijan’s proactive role in ECO.
Reviewed the progress in… pic.twitter.com/MxOEuyTkri
Throughout his engagements, PM Shehbaz Sharif’s message was clear: regional cooperation is essential in facing today’s interconnected challenges. Whether combating climate change, promoting peace, or fostering economic growth, the ECO member states must act as one.
