Salehi Calls For ECO Member States To Implement Joint Programs

Tehran, Oct 8, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi on Sunday called on member states of the Economic Cooperation Organization to implement joint programs which will secure both collective and national interests. In a meeting with ECO secretary general, Shamil Aleskerov, he recalled the status of ECO and the need to pursue priorities of the regional states. Salehi recommended that ECO must use professional executives to advance the specialized programs which needs knowledge and skills. Salehi pointed out that ECO should develop its ties with the other regional and international organizations and identify the opportunities for cooperation. The institutes affiliated to ECO are also important, Salehi said, noting that capacities of the member states and their growing markets will help the organization reach its goals. Aleskerov, for his part, presented a report on the upcoming ECO summit to be held in Baku. The secretary-general said that the Islamic Republic of Iran is a main player within the organization. He thanked Iranian assistance to host the ECO Secretariat./end