2. ECO Women Forum – Lachin, July 2, 2025
The ECO Women Forum convened in Lachin, with the participation of women leaders, entrepreneurs, ministers, and NGO representatives. The forum focused on empowering women as change-makers in sustainable development. Panel discussions explored the role of women in climate adaptation, conflict resolution, and STEM education.
The “Lachin Women’s Charter on Climate Action,” adopted at the forum, called on ECO governments to integrate gender-responsive policies into national and regional climate frameworks.
3. ECO Business Forum – Fuzuli, July 2, 2025
Held concurrently in Fuzuli, the 6th ECO Business Forum attracted hundreds of entrepreneurs, investors, and representatives of chambers of commerce. Under the theme “Investment and Trade Promotion as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development in the ECO Region,” the forum showcased investment opportunities in renewable energy, logistics, digital economy, and agribusiness.
Business matchmaking sessions facilitated partnerships between regional and foreign companies. Azerbaijan’s presentation on the “Smart Karabakh” initiative demonstrated how innovation can drive inclusive and green economic recovery.
Strategic Outcomes and Declarations
The summit’s outcome documents included:
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The Khankendi Declaration, a consensus document reaffirming ECO’s commitment to regional solidarity, sustainable development, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
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Adoption of the preliminary framework for Strategic Objectives of Economic Cooperation – 2035 (ECO-2035), with five priority areas:
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Climate-smart economic growth
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Integrated transport and digital connectivity
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Clean energy cooperation
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Inclusive education and innovation
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Strengthening regional institutions and resilience
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These documents will guide the work of ECO’s institutions, including the ECO Trade and Development Bank, ECO Cultural Institute, ECO Science Foundation, ECO Educational Institute, and the Parliamentary Assembly of ECO Member States (PAECO).