By Abid Chaudhry
TWA
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Reza Amiri Moghadam, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Pakistan, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the government of Pakistan for the successful hosting of the 23rd Meeting of Ministers of Trade and Commerce of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states. He also expressed his warm appreciation for the hospitality extended to all participating delegations.
In his remarks, Ambassador Moghadam emphasized the significance of the SCO as the largest regional organization in terms of area and population, covering 80% of Eurasia and 40% of the world’s population. He highlighted the economic importance of the organization, noting its control of 20% of the world’s oil reserves, 44% of its gas reserves, and a combined GDP of $24.2 trillion in 2023, which constitutes approximately one-fourth of the global GDP.
Ambassador Moghadam further explained that the SCO consists of 10 main members, two observer members, and 14 dialogue partners, and expressed his belief that many more countries are likely to join this important organization in the near future. He stressed the need to activate the full potential of SCO members through cooperation and collective synergy, say’s press note.
Focusing on transportation infrastructure and trade corridors, Ambassador Moghadam underlined the importance of completing existing corridors and creating new ones to drive cooperation within the SCO and beyond. He pointed to significant routes such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the North-South Corridor, and the East-West Corridor, which he said could enhance synergy among SCO members and other parts of the world.
Highlighting Iran’s strategic position with its 5,800 kilometers of coastline, including 890 kilometers in the north and 4,900 kilometers in the south, Ambassador Moghadam expressed pride in Iran’s role in connecting the North-South and East-West corridors. He mentioned key Iranian ports such as Chabahar, Bandar Abbas, Mahshahr, and Amirabad, which serve as essential hubs for transportation and play a vital role in SCO’s objectives.
Ambassador Moghadam also pointed out that Iran’s railway network, with minimal investment, could significantly contribute to connecting the North-South and East-West corridors, providing SCO members with access to global markets. He noted Iran’s special provisions and incentives for investment in its coastal and northern regions, aimed at enhancing connectivity and facilitating trade between member countries.
