ECO Summit 2023
During his address at the 16th Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) Summit 2023 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar called for holding Israel accountable for its aggression in the besieged Gaza Strip.
He condemned the “incessant and lethal” bombardment of Gaza, emphasizing the need for international condemnation and action in accordance with relevant UNSC and OIC resolutions. PM Kakar urged all ECO member states to push for a Gaza ceasefire, support humanitarian assistance, and rally efforts to hold Israel accountable.
He lamented the bombing of hospitals and the killing of innocent civilians, expressing strong condemnation of these actions.
The PM reiterated Pakistan’s stance, emphasizing the need for a humanitarian corridor to aid the defenseless people of Palestine affected by the conflict initiated by Hamas’ surprise attack on Israel.
In his speech, Kakar also highlighted Indian atrocities on the people of held Kashmir, emphasizing the need for addressing growing intolerance, violence, and xenophobia threatening the region. The prime minister urged ECO member states and the international community to collaborate in building political and legal deterrence against the rise of Islamophobia while fostering mutual respect, interfaith harmony, and peaceful coexistence.
Regarding the ECO summit, Kakar underscored the importance of realizing the organization’s goals and objectives to achieve economic and peace dividends. He stated that a well-connected region could bring colossal benefits in terms of both economic prosperity and peace.
Kakar and Azerbaijan President Unite to Confront the Issue of Islamophobia
Earlier in the day, the premier announced a “constructive interaction” with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, pledging their joint commitment to addressing global issues such as Islamophobia and climate change.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he highlighted the growth in trade, defense, and energy ties between the two nations, expressing optimism that the launch of direct AZAL flights would enhance connectivity. The prime minister emphasized their collective efforts in tackling pressing global issues like Islamophobia and climate change.
The premier engaged in a group photo session alongside the heads of states from ECO member countries. Prior to this, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev welcomed PM Kakar upon his arrival at the Tashkent Convention Center.
Yesterday, the prime minister embarked on a two-day visit to Uzbekistan. According to the itinerary shared by the PMO, he is scheduled to visit the shrine of Imam Bukhari in Samarkand.
During his visit, PM Kakar conducted a bilateral meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. They emphasized the necessity of finalizing the “Strategic Partnership Agreement” to foster robust intra-regional connectivity through air, road, and railway transport. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to the timely completion of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan railway project, projected to conclude by 2027.
