An important development has emerged ahead of the 10th meeting of the Economic Cooperation Organization, as Afghanistan’s interim government has decided not to attend the high-level regional gathering being held in Islamabad despite receiving a formal invitation.
Government sources have confirmed that an official invitation was sent to the Afghan side to participate in the meeting, but the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has chosen not to send its delegation for the event.
The meeting is expected to focus on key regional issues, including economic development, disaster management and opportunities for international and regional cooperation.
Pakistani officials have underlined the importance of the forum saying that one of the organization’s main objectives is to strengthen links among member states and reduce the risks posed by natural disasters.
According to officials, the gathering is part of broader efforts to improve coordination among regional countries especially in areas related to disaster preparedness and response.
Ministers and high level delegations from member states are attending the meeting highlighting its significance for regional cooperation.
The Economic Cooperation Organization includes several countries from South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East.
Its members include Pakistan, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
Officials say the forum provides an important platform for discussing shared challenges and promoting closer economic and technical cooperation among member countries.
The absence of the Afghan delegation is being noted at a time when regional engagement and coordination on economic and humanitarian issues remain important.
While no official reason has been given for Kabul’s decision to stay away, the development has drawn attention in diplomatic circles, given Afghanistan’s role in the region and its membership in the organization.
The meeting in Islamabad is expected to continue with participation from the remaining member states focusing on strengthening regional cooperation and improving collective responses to natural disasters and other shared challenges.
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