ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday held a series of meetings with the presidents of Türkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the 17th Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) summit in Khankendi, Azerbaijan, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, connectivity and enhanced bilateral trade and investment.
The two-day summit, held from July 3-4, focused on promoting economic cooperation, sustainable development and regional integration among ECO member states.
Sharif led Pakistan’s delegation, using the opportunity to deepen bilateral and multilateral ties with key regional partners.
In his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations and vowed to accelerate progress in critical areas.
“The two leaders reiterated their resolve to bring about meaningful progress in relations... [emphasizing] the importance of deepening cooperation in trade, defense, energy, connectivity and investment,” a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.
To advance this agenda, both sides agreed to exchange high-level delegations to finalize understandings reached between the sides.
Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s “unwavering commitment” to working closely with Türkiye to promote peace, stability and sustainable development in the region.
In another key engagement, the Pakistani prime minister met Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, with both leaders reviewing the implementation of previous agreements to strengthen bilateral ties.
Sharif praised Iran’s leadership during the recent conflict with Israel and welcomed Tehran’s decision to agree to a ceasefire.
“The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with the people and Government of Iran and Pakistan’s strong commitment to continue working closely with Iran for peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy,” said another PMO statement.
In turn, President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its diplomatic support during the crisis and acknowledged its role in efforts to de-escalate tensions.
The prime minister also held talks with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, in what was their third bilateral meeting this year. The two leaders agreed to further strengthen their economic partnership, especially by accelerating Azerbaijan’s investments in Pakistan.
“The two leaders agreed to enhance their cooperation in the fields of trade and investment while expressing satisfaction over the progress made regarding the investment prospects,” the PMO said.
Sharif invited President Aliyev to visit Pakistan, noting that recent exchanges had significantly strengthened bilateral ties.
The Azerbaijan leader had previously announced a $2 billion investment package for Pakistan during a visit to Islamabad in 2024, and the two countries have also deepened defense cooperation, including Islamabad’s sale of JF-17 fighter jets to Baku.
In his meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Sharif focused on regional integration, energy cooperation and the Trans-Afghan Railway Project, which is seen as vital for unlocking trade corridors between Central and South Asia.
“The two leaders agreed on visits of their senior ministers to Tashkent and Islamabad to finalize necessary agreements,” the PMO said, adding that the two sides viewed their cultural and historical ties as a strong foundation for broader collaboration.
