President ECI seeks Pakistan’s support for cultural promotion

February 13, 2025

By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan must support utilize the platform of ECO Cultural Institute (ECI) for the promotion of its soft image in the region and beyond”, this was stated by Dr. Saad S. Khan, President ECI, in his recent call on the Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary, Ms Amna Baloch, at her office in Islamabad.

Dr. Khan introduced ECI, highlighting its distinction as the oldest and largest specialized agency of the ten-member Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) based in Tehran.

Ambassador Khan emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy and proposed the establishment of cultural houses in Pakistan, similar to those established by our neighboring countries, to promote Pakistan’s heritage globally.

Dr. Khan provided an update on ECI's literary achievements, noting the publication of 63 books, with a focus on increasing publications in regional languages across the ECO member states.

He further highlighted ECI’s recent cultural and academic initiatives, including various literary, artistic, and musical events, as well as visits to ECO member countries to strengthen cultural ties.

He also mentioned ECI's soft diplomacy efforts, including sending traditional sweets during Eid and presenting cultural gifts such as Turkish and Azerbaijani caps.

Dr. Khan expressed his gratitude to Pakistan for being an active member and personally thanked Foreign Secretary Ms. Amna Baloch for her continued support .

Amna Baloch appreciated the cultural initiatives led by ECI, acknowledging the Institute’s efforts in promoting cultural understanding and cooperation within the ECO region.

She assured Dr. Khan that Pakistan will continue to support and actively engage in cultural-related initiatives under the ECI framework