By Pasha Holding
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 4. At the 17th Summit of
the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in Khankendi,
Pakistan鈥檚 Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif proposed the development
of low-carbon corridors across the ECO region.
The initiative envisions the establishment of a regional carbon
market, disaster resilience systems, and a platform for mobilizing
climate finance. Its goals include promoting sustainable economic
growth, creating green jobs鈥攑articularly for youth and women鈥攁nd
supporting vulnerable regions.
As a country deeply affected by the impacts of climate change,
Pakistan is seeking to enhance regional cooperation on sustainable
development.
At the COP29 summit held in Baku in November 2024, Pakistan took
an active role in advocating for stronger climate diplomacy and
increased financial support for climate-vulnerable countries.
Sharif expressed hope that the summit would serve as a 鈥渇inance
COP,鈥 restoring trust in climate pledges and boosting funding for
developing nations. At the ECO summit, he again emphasized the need
for developed countries to fulfill their climate finance
commitments.
Within the ECO framework, Pakistan is also working to strengthen
regional integration and trade, particularly through the
development of transport corridors such as the North鈥揝outh route.
These projects are viewed as vital to expanding market access and
deepening regional connectivity.
To bring this low-carbon vision to life, significant investment
in green projects will be needed, alongside the creation of carbon
trading mechanisms and modern infrastructure. The success of the
initiative will depend on the political will of ECO member states
and effective collaboration. If realized, Pakistan鈥檚 proposal could
become a major step toward a greener regional economy and serve as
a model for other developing nations.