Islamabad: Secretary-General of the Developing-8 (D-8) Organization for Economic Cooperation, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, has reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to deeper economic cooperation among member states during the 51st Session of the D-8 Commission in Ankara.
According to Beyond Time News, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood visited the Turkish capital from June 15 to 17 to attend the commission meeting and events marking the 29th anniversary of the organization’s establishment.
The session was hosted by Türkiye under the chairmanship of Egypt.
Senior representatives from all member states attended the meeting to review progress and discuss the future direction of the organization.
Secretariat Presents Progress Report
During the session, the Commission reviewed a report presented by the Secretary-General on the Secretariat’s activities during the first half of 2026.
The report highlighted progress in strengthening international partnerships and expanding cooperation among member countries.
According to Beyond Time News, the report covered developments in trade, energy, tourism, agriculture, science and technology, youth affairs, connectivity and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The Commission also reviewed preparations for the 12th D-8 Summit, which is scheduled to take place in Jakarta.
Discussions also focused on institutional reforms and the implementation of the D-8 Decennial Roadmap 2020-2030.
Egypt’s Trade Agreement Ratification Welcomed
The Commission welcomed Egypt’s announcement regarding the ratification of the D-8 Preferential Trade Agreement and the Dispute Settlement Mechanism.
Officials described the development as an important step toward increasing trade among member countries.
Observers believe the move could help strengthen economic integration within the bloc.
D-8 Energy Ministers Adopt Baku Declaration to Boost Regional Energy Cooperation
Anniversary Event Held in Ankara
A reception marking the 29th anniversary of the D-8 was hosted by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The event brought together diplomats, senior officials, business leaders and representatives of international organizations.
Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Ambassador Berris Ekinci hosted the reception.
A message from Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan was also read out during the ceremony.
D-8’s Strategic Importance Growing
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood paid tribute to the late Turkish Prime Minister Prof. Dr. Necmettin Erbakan, who founded the organization in 1997.
He said the D-8 had evolved into a dynamic transcontinental platform representing more than 1.28 billion people.
According to Beyond Time News, the combined GDP of member countries exceeds $5.2 trillion.
The Secretary-General said the organization was becoming increasingly important amid geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty and climate challenges.
He stressed the need for stronger South-South cooperation and greater economic integration.
Expansion and New Initiatives
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood highlighted several recent achievements of the organization.
These included Azerbaijan’s accession as the ninth member state.
He also referred to the first-ever meeting of D-8 energy ministers held in Baku.
According to Beyond Time News, efforts are underway to establish a D-8 Energy and Climate Center, a Transport Excellence Center and a Media Excellence Center in Azerbaijan.
The Secretary-General also highlighted the organization’s growing cooperation with international bodies and regional institutions.
High-Level Meetings in Ankara
On the sidelines of the session, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood held talks with Fuat Oktay, chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye and former vice president of the country.
The discussions focused on regional developments and preparations for the upcoming D-8 Summit.
The Secretary-General thanked Türkiye for its longstanding support for the organization.
He also met TIKA President Abdullah Eren to discuss cooperation in development assistance, digital transformation, agriculture, education and healthcare.
Both sides agreed to explore the creation of a platform to strengthen collaboration among development agencies of member states.
Focus on Innovation and SMEs
In a separate meeting with KOSGEB President Ahmet Serdar Ibrahimcioglu, discussions focused on entrepreneurship, innovation and digital transformation.
The two sides also explored cooperation in artificial intelligence, start-up ecosystems and technology development.
According to Beyond Time News, they discussed mechanisms aimed at improving SME financing and promoting regional value-chain integration.
Commitment to Shared Growth
The Secretary-General reaffirmed the Secretariat’s commitment to working closely with member states.
He said the goal was to build a stronger and more future-oriented organization capable of delivering tangible benefits to people across the D-8 region.
Officials believe practical cooperation in trade, innovation and development will help support sustainable growth and prosperity among member countries.
FAQs
What is the D-8 Organization?
The Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation is a group of developing countries that promotes economic collaboration and sustainable development.
Where was the 51st Session of the D-8 Commission held?
The meeting took place in Ankara, Türkiye, from June 15 to 17.
Who is the current D-8 Secretary-General?
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood is serving as the Secretary-General of the organization.
Which country recently joined the D-8?
Azerbaijan became the ninth member state of the organization.
Where will the next D-8 Summit be held?
The 12th D-8 Summit is scheduled to take place in Jakarta.
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