Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and the Economic Cooperation Organization Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECO-CCI), said ECO member states have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional economic cooperation.
Australia Celebrates Strong and Growing Partnership With Pakistan
He stated that member countries aim to enhance transport connectivity, trade facilitation, tourism promotion, industrial collaboration, SME development, and women entrepreneurship initiatives across the region.
ECO-CCI Specialized Committees Hold Key Discussions
Atif Ikram Sheikh shared these remarks while addressing a meeting of the Specialized Committees of ECO-CCI.
The Secretary General of ECO-CCI chaired the session, while representatives from national chambers and business communities of ECO member countries also attended.
During the meeting, delegates presented recommendations and proposals related to transportation, tourism, trade facilitation, industry, investment, SMEs, women entrepreneurship, and visa facilitation.
Participants also shared national experiences and policy approaches aimed at improving regional economic cooperation and increasing private-sector participation.
ECO Secretariat Highlights Importance of Regional Agreements
Representatives from the Economic Cooperation Organization Secretariat delivered a detailed presentation on regional trade, transport connectivity, transit systems, and visa facilitation mechanisms.
Officials stressed the importance of implementing existing regional agreements and cooperation frameworks to achieve stronger economic integration.
Revival of ECO Train and Transport Corridors Discussed
During the discussions, participants emphasized the urgent need to revive and operationalize the Istanbul–Tehran–Islamabad Container Train, also known as the ECO Train.
They also called for the strengthening of regional transport corridors to improve the movement of goods among member states.
Atif Ikram Sheikh noted that intra-regional trade within ECO countries remains below its true potential despite strong geographic, cultural, and economic advantages.
Focus on Women Entrepreneurship and SME Growth
Participants highlighted the importance of simplifying customs procedures, improving visa facilitation, and promoting tourism linkages.
Moreover, delegates stressed the need to create stronger institutional support systems for SMEs, industrial cooperation, and cross-border investment.
Representatives at the Women Entrepreneurs Forum also proposed regular networking sessions, regional exhibitions, and trade fairs to support women-led businesses and strengthen partnerships across the ECO region.
ECO-CCI Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Prosperity
Atif Ikram Sheikh appreciated the active participation of member states and reaffirmed ECO-CCI’s commitment to revitalizing regional cooperation and business-to-business engagement.
The meeting concluded with consensus on continuing regular sectoral engagements and practical initiatives to improve regional connectivity, trade integration, and private-sector collaboration among ECO member countries.
