Islamabad, May 8, 2026: President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and the Economic Cooperation Organization Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECO-CCI), Atif Ikram Sheikh, has proposed the introduction of a special visa sticker for the business community of ECO member countries to facilitate regional trade and strengthen economic integration.
The proposal came during a meeting between Atif Ikram Sheikh and Dr. Asad Majeed Khan at the President Secretariat in Islamabad, where both sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the Economic Cooperation Organization and its business wing.
Speaking during the meeting, Atif Ikram Sheikh stressed that boosting mutual trade and economic relations among ECO member states had become increasingly important amid growing regional and global economic uncertainties.
He noted that instability in the Middle East was affecting economies across the region, including Pakistan, and emphasized the need for stronger regional connectivity and business cooperation.
Atif Ikram Sheikh also offered to establish the ECO-CCI Secretariat in Pakistan and sought the support of the ECO Secretary General in advancing the proposal. In addition, he proposed that Pakistan host the upcoming ECO Executive Committee meeting.
During the discussion, Secretary General Dr. Asad Majeed observed that intra-regional trade among ECO countries remained significantly below its true potential. He stressed the importance of improving linkages among the business communities of member states to unlock broader economic opportunities.
The meeting also featured an exchange of views on the evolving situation in the Middle East and its economic implications for the wider region.
Atif Ikram Sheikh said Pakistan’s leadership, including the Prime Minister, the Field Marshal and the Foreign Minister, was actively engaged in diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Middle East. He expressed optimism that ongoing peace initiatives and diplomatic engagements, including Iran-U.S. talks, could lead to a major breakthrough in the coming days.
The meeting was attended by several prominent business leaders, including Tariq Sadiq, Tariq Jadoon, Kareem Aziz Malik, Malik Sohail Hussain, Mian Akram Farid, Umar Rehan Sheikh and Omais Khattak, along with other members of the business community.
