Islamabad: Analysts have lauded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s participation in the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Summit, highlighting its significance amid pressing global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development. The summit is a pivotal platform where regional countries engage to address these interconnected issues, fostering discussions on trade and bilateral cooperation.
According to Radio Pakistan, Dr. Shafqat Munir, an International Relations expert, emphasized the importance of the summit for regional countries, which are actively collaborating on trade and other bilateral matters. Climate change and sustainable development are at the forefront of these discussions, as they are common challenges faced by all participating nations. Pakistan, having championed the establishment of a loss and damage fund at the Egypt Climate Change conference, continues to play a vital role in advocating for climate change agendas on regional and international stages. Prime Minister Shehbaz’s presence at the summit underscores his commitment to addressing these issues, including energy and water security, with global leaders.
Dr. Ijaz Ahmad, an environmentalist, noted that climate change is now a priority topic at international forums, and the ECO Summit will inevitably address it, with zero carbon emissions as a key agenda item. Azerbaijan, having chaired COP 29, brings valuable experience in combating climate change, offering potential solutions such as vehicle emissions control and solar energy adoption. The collaboration between Pakistan and Azerbaijan in areas like energy transfer and worker capacity building could be instrumental in overcoming climate challenges. Pakistan can benefit from Azerbaijan’s expertise, enhancing its strategies for sustainable development.