Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in Baku, Azerbaijan, to attend the 17th ECO Summit scheduled from July 3–4, 2025, marking a significant moment in Pakistan’s diplomatic and regional development efforts. The summit, held in Khankendi, gathers the heads of state and government of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO), along with ministers, international observers, and global delegates aiming to bolster regional economic integration.
The ECO Summit provides a vital forum for enhancing economic relations between participating countries and investigating cooperative approaches to addressing common issues. This year’s theme focuses on sustainable development, trade facilitation, and regional cooperation for mutual prosperity.
PM Shehbaz is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi. The team is expected to engage in a series of bilateral meetings and regional consultations during the two-day summit.
During his address to the summit, PM Shehbaz Sharif is expected to outline Pakistan’s vision for economic connectivity and regional unity, emphasizing the role of ECO in addressing global challenges like energy security, trade barriers, and post-pandemic recovery.
He will also reiterate Pakistan’s commitment to the ECO Vision 2025, which calls for sustainable economic development, regional peace, and mutual prosperity. The premier will present policy proposals and action points tailored to boost intra-regional trade, transportation linkages, and cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, energy, and digitalization.
Why This Summit Matters for Pakistan and the Region
The Economic Cooperation Organisation, founded in 1985, includes 10 member states primarily from Central and South Asia and the Middle East. As one of its founding members, Pakistan holds a strategic position in driving ECO’s agenda for inclusive growth.
Participation in this summit allows Pakistan to reinforce bilateral ties, unlock trade and investment opportunities, and assert its stance on critical regional matters. With the world grappling with geopolitical shifts and economic volatility, regional alliances like ECO are vital for smaller economies to thrive through collaboration.
Moreover, the summit provides an opportunity for Pakistan to leverage CPEC and other infrastructural projects as part of its offering to the ECO community, positioning itself as a regional trade and transit hub.
A Step Toward Economic Unity and Stability
The 17th ECO Summit in Baku is more than a diplomatic visit; it reflects a strategic pursuit of regional integration, economic cooperation, and collective resilience. The involvement of PM Shehbaz demonstrates Pakistan’s dedication to developing alliances in line with ECO Vision 2025.
With an emphasis on economic diplomacy and collaborative growth, this summit could pave the way for greater regional solidarity, better resource sharing, and a stronger collective voice on international platforms.
