Minister of Roads and Urban Development Highlights Strategic Role of ECO Transport Cooperation in Connecting Nations and Cultures

Farzaneh Sadegh, underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation among ECO member states in the domains of transport and logistics. She stressed that such collaboration serves as a critical link in uniting nations, cultures, and civilizations, further calling for concerted efforts to enhance these strategic connections.

International Representation in Tehran
The high-level meeting, held on Monday, June 1st in Tehran, brought together an esteemed assembly of regional leaders and representatives. Participating in the event were transport ministers from Iran, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, as well as deputy transport ministers from Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. The meeting also included a representative from Azerbaijan's Ministry of Transport, ambassadors from ECO member states, the ECO Secretary General, and delegates from TRACECA, the ECO Bank, and the Islamic Development Bank.

Minister Sadegh’s Opening Remarks
Welcoming the attendees, Minister Sadegh stated:
"On behalf of the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development of the Islamic Republic of Iran, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all participants and warmly welcome you to Tehran. It has been nearly two years since the 12th ECO Transport Ministerial Meeting in Tashkent, and I am delighted to host this 13th summit."
She highlighted the pivotal role of the Economic Cooperation Organization in fostering regional connectivity. "This meeting underscores the significant opportunities before us to advance regional cooperation through ECO, strengthening shared objectives such as improving communications and boosting trade among member nations," Minister Sadegh remarked.

A Vision for Regional Connectivity
The minister further noted the role of ECO as a cornerstone for promoting close relations within the region and beyond, reaffirming Iran's unwavering commitment to supporting the organization’s mission. She stated:
"The multilateral collaboration of ECO members in transport and logistics reflects the existence of a vital link for uniting nations, cultures, and civilizations. Strengthening these ties requires our collective efforts."
Minister Sadegh stressed the importance of integrating infrastructure and trade routes to promote sustainable development, regional stability, and improved welfare for member nations. "Joint projects aimed at facilitating seamless transport and trade processes are essential to achieving these goals," she said.

Looking Ahead
Expressing optimism about the summit’s outcomes, Sadegh concluded:
"We are confident that the discussions and resolutions of this meeting will pave the way for deeper cooperation in transport corridors, foster trade integration, and lay the foundation for a brighter future among ECO members."
The meeting also featured a keynote address by ECO Secretary General Majid Assad Khan, who echoed the sentiment of fostering regional unity through enhanced transportation networks.
The 13th ECO Transport Ministers' Meeting marks a significant milestone in advancing the shared vision of regional connectivity, setting the stage for enhanced economic and cultural integration across member states.