The Economic Co-operation Organisation is a product of our political will to cooperate closely for the benefit of our peoples. Successful activity of the ECO is in our common interests. Peoples of our countries share common history, culture, traditions and religion. Azerbaijan attaches great importance to the activity of the ECO. Since the start of our chairmanship in 2012, we have worked together with all member states to further strengthen this organisation.
Azerbaijan contributed a lot to the development of our organisation and deepening our regional co-operation. Having excellent relations with all the member states of the ECO, Azerbaijan strengthened its economic ties both on bilateral and multilateral level with its partners. We did our best to promote the ECO not just as a physical bridge between East and West and North and South but also as a place which unites different civilisations and cultures.
Azerbaijan and Pakistan traditionally share ties of friendship and brotherhood. Our relationship, based on confidence, mutual trust and respect, develops successfully and has reached the level of strategic partnership. Pakistan is one of the first countries to recognise the independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan and in 2017 we will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
We are confident that during Pakistan's Chairmanship within the ECO new achievements will be attained that will bring prosperity, and strengthen co-operation and friendship between member states. I wish the brotherly Islamic Republic of Pakistan success during its Chairmanship in the ECO.