ECONOMIC COOPERATION FOR GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT ANDSUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

It is a source of great honour and joy to contribute to the 8th Edition of ECO Economic Journal being revived through the dedicated efforts of the Economic Scientific ResearchInstitute (the ESRI) after almost a 10-year interval. Endorsed by the ECO Member States in2009, the Journal was meant to provide a forum for theoretical background andmethodological research on social and economic issues related to our region with special
focus on sustainable development and economic growth, dynamics in the fields of trade andconnectivity, communications, industry, energy, environment, minerals, agriculture,tourism, human resources, etc.
The intervening period has witnessed a number of major regional and global developments, including economic and financial crises, political stress, wars and disputes characterized by widespread tensions and destabilization as well as natural disasters, most notably COVID-19. The pandemic appeared to bear devastating impacts on humans, taking a significant toll on lives, livelihoods, healthcare systems, societies and economies. COVID- 19’s undermining effects on regional and global development efforts resulted in rising inflation, disruptions in value chains and increased poverty across the globe.