Mashhad: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized the necessity of improved connectivity, liberalized visa regimes, and streamlined border procedures to unlock the geo-economic potential of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) region. Speaking at the Meeting of ECO Council of Ministers in Mashhad, Iran, Dar highlighted that these measures are crucial for fostering mutual interdependencies that could lead to sustainable growth among member states. According to Radio Pakistan, Dar stressed the importance of devising better strategies for the efficient use of energy resources to bolster economic ties among ECO nations. He asserted that such cooperation would contribute to peace and stability in the region. Dar noted that Pakistan is actively upgrading its rail and road infrastructure to ensure a smoother flow of goods with neighboring countries and beyond. The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed out that ECO's specialized agencies and regional institutions are pivotal in advancing the organization's ob jectives through increased engagement and enhanced people-to-people contacts. In a broader geopolitical context, Dar condemned Israeli actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, expressing concern over the escalating hostilities that threaten regional peace and security. He reiterated Pakistan's call for maintaining peace and security, safeguarding the sovereignty of Lebanon and Syria, and addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine.