World leaders have convened in Azerbaijan’s Khankendi city on Friday for the much-anticipated 17th summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO). Amidst grand welcoming ceremonies, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other dignitaries were met by Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev.
A Symbolic Gathering
Holding the summit in Khankendi is laden with historical undertones for Azerbaijan. Once a symbol of occupation in the Karabakh region, the city now stands as a testament to renewed sovereignty and regional collaboration. This choice of venue poignantly underscores Azerbaijan’s remarkable transformation and ambitions.
Prominent Figures at the Summit
The summit, themed “New ECO Vision for a Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Future,” brings together esteemed leaders such as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. They join a constellation of influential figures including Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, and TRNC President Ersin Tatar.
Expanding Horizons and Strengthening Bonds
At its core, the ECO summit aims to improve development initiatives and bolster trade and investment opportunities among its member states. Established in 1985 by Türkiye, Pakistan, and Iran, the organization now represents a powerful political and economic alliance. Participants engage in discussions geared towards fostering collaboration on sustainable growth and climate resilience.
Wider Representation
Aside from the primary member representatives, key figures such as Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Oljas Bektenov and UAE’s Industry and Advanced Technology Minister Sultan Al Jaber also grace the event. The presence of esteemed guests like the Secretary Generals of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and the ECO reflect the summit’s expansive reach.
A Visionary Future
As the summit progresses, the shared visions for progress and prosperity among the ECO members and observer states resonate strongly. Set against a backdrop of rich culture and historical legacy, the 17th summit in Azerbaijan sets the stage for a promising era of cooperative development and international solidarity.
According to Yeni Şafak, the event signifies pivotal steps towards a globally sustainable future through collective effort and shared vision.
