It gives me great pleasure to convey warmest felicitations to the governments and peoples of fellow ECO member states on the 13^th ECO Day.  The people of Pakistan are happy to join the ECO community in observing this auspicious event.

          Pakistan values ECO as the primary vehicle of the economic integration of our region. We remain committed to its principles and objectives and, together with our brethren in the ECO, would continue working for their early realization.

          We believe that, with sustained collective efforts, regional cooperation will become more meaningful and contribute significantly to our integration into the global economy. Important steps have been taken in that direction including, lately, the adoption of ECO Vision 2015 by the15th meeting of the Council of Ministers in Kazakhstan in October 2005. The strategic location of the ECO region, our rich human and material resources promise further success.

          We are marking the ECO Day this year as Pakistan undertakes massive reconstruction and rehabilitation after a devastating earthquake. Our people are facing this tragedy with grace and fortitude. We deeply appreciate the sympathy and support of the ECO membership and Secretariat.

          I wish ECO continued success in achieving its ideals and objectives.