Istanbul:The Developing Eight (D8) Organization for Economic Cooperation is being recognized for its significant role in promoting peace and stability globally, as emphasized by Secretary-General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood. Speaking at the 9th Istanbul Mediation Conference, Mahmood underscored the geostrategic and geoeconomic importance of the organization's member countries.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Mahmood noted the ongoing global conflicts, with more than 65 conflicts currently involving over 100 countries, affecting approximately one-quarter of the world's population living in conflict zones. He stressed the importance of the conference theme, "Partnerships for Peace and New Perspectives Mediation in a Changing World," in addressing these challenges.
Mahmood praised Türkiye for hosting mediation conferences, which provide a platform for discussing mediation challenges and potential solutions. He highlighted Türkiye's mediation efforts in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Black Sea Grain Initiative, and conflicts in Africa, emphasizing the strategic importance of such initiatives.
The Secretary-General pointed to Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan's emphasis on sincere dialogue, sustainable mediation, and regional ownership as fundamental principles for resolving conflicts. He remarked on the D8's composition, which includes Türkiye, Pakistan, Iran, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nigeria, Egypt, and recently Azerbaijan, noting their collective geostrategic significance.
Mahmood also referenced the R4 and R4+E3 foreign ministers' meetings held in Istanbul, which support diplomacy and dialogue. He reiterated the D8's mission of economic cooperation and integration, aiming to enhance trade and strengthen economic ties among its members.
Highlighting the D8's focus on green and digital transformations, Mahmood identified climate change-driven green transition and digital transformation as key areas of progress. He also mentioned the D8's 10-year roadmap, targeting a $500 billion trade volume among member countries by 2030, and the organization's upcoming 30th anniversary with a summit planned for Indonesia in 2027.