Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan received Sohail Mahmood, Secretary General of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, at the Foreign Ministry in Ankara.

According to diplomatic sources, the meeting focused on enhancing intra-D-8 trade, expanding sectoral cooperation, and accelerating joint projects in strategic areas such as energy, transportation, defense industries, agriculture, and digital transformation. Both sides emphasized the importance of revitalizing the organization’s institutional mechanisms to better respond to global economic volatility and regional challenges.

Minister Fidan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to the objectives of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, underlining Ankara’s readiness to take an active role in advancing the bloc’s 2030 Vision. He stressed that boosting trade volume among member states remains a key priority, noting that current levels fall short of the bloc’s potential.

Sohail Mahmood briefed Fidan on ongoing preparations for upcoming D-8 ministerial meetings and economic forums scheduled later this year. He also outlined new initiatives aimed at facilitating small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), promoting halal industry standards, and strengthening financial cooperation mechanisms among member countries.

The discussions reportedly included preparations for the next D-8 Summit and coordination on joint positions regarding reform of the global economic system. The two officials also exchanged views on regional developments affecting D-8 member states and the need for greater South-South cooperation.

Established in 1997, the D-8 brings together eight major Muslim-majority developing countries — Türkiye, Pakistan, Iran, Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Egypt, and Nigeria — with the aim of fostering economic cooperation, increasing trade, and strengthening collective bargaining power in global platforms.

Diplomatic observers note that Ankara has recently intensified its engagement with multilateral economic groupings, viewing the D-8 as a strategic platform to deepen ties with emerging markets across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to enhance coordination and ensure tangible outcomes from future D-8 initiatives. (ILKHA)