The 1^st ECO Forum on Sustainable Development was jointly organized by the ECO Secretariat and the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, successfully held on April 28-29, 2025 in Arkadag, Turkmenistan. The forum brought together high-level delegations and experts to discuss critical issues concerning sustainable development in the ECO region.

The event was preceded by the High-Level Sustainable Development Working Group Meeting, and the opening session featured remarks from distinguished figures, including H.E. Mr. Mammetguly Astanagulov, Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, and H.E. Dr. Asad M. Khan, ECO Secretary General. Guests also included representatives from the United Nations, ECO Member Countries, and prominent institutions. President ECOSF Prof. Seyed Komail Tayebi participated and contributed the Forum on behalf of ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF).

The forum’s agenda was divided into four thematic panels, covering diverse topics such as climate change, sustainable finance, family institutions, and strategic deliberations on the ECO Vision 2026–2035. Panel discussions highlighted innovative approaches—including artificial intelligence and green financing mechanisms—for achieving SDGs while fostering regional collaboration.

Prof. Seyed Komail Tayebi, President of ECO Science Foundation, emphasized the importance of science, technology, and innovation (STI) as vital tools for sustainable development. He outlined ECOSF’s Vision 2026–2035, which included key strategic pillars such as building human capital, accelerating digital transformation, and fostering indigenous knowledge integration.

President ECOSF contributed as panelist to one of the crucial segment of the ECO Forum, focusing on the development of ECO Vision 2026-2035. This panel was moderated by Dr. Seyed Jalaeddin Alavi Sabzevari, Director General for International and Multilateral Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the discussions provided strategic insights into the region’s sustainable goals.

Other panelists included:

• Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Planning and Development and Special Initiatives of Pakistan
• Asad M. Khan, ECO Secretary General
• Taganova Halbibi Tachjanova, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Turkmenistan
• Seyed Komail Tayebi, President of the ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF)
• Abdolkarim Sadeghdoost, Executive Director of ECO Educational Institute

The discussions highlighted the association between SDGs, ECO Vision, and the role of youth and emerging researchers. The importance of engaging the private sector, the business community, and women’s participation in economic development was underscored.

President ECOSF delivered a speech at the forum, emphasizing the transformative role of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) in achieving SDGs. He outlined how advancements in renewable energy, precision agriculture, and digital healthcare could foster inclusive and resilient societies while addressing challenges like climate change and resource scarcity.

The forum culminated with a shared commitment to transforming the ECO region into a hub of scientific excellence and sustainable technological solutions by 2035, ensuring inclusive growth and enhanced quality of life for the region’s people. This landmark event set the stage for collaborative efforts to tackle the region’s most pressing development challenges.