Ankara – Sohail Mahmood, the Secretary-General of the Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8), recently concluded a visit to Türkiye, reaffirming the country’s crucial role within the organization and laying the groundwork for the upcoming D-8 summit in Jakarta. The visit, which took place from February 23rd to 25th, 2026, focused on strengthening the D-8’s institutional capacity and fostering greater economic cooperation among its member states. This official visit, his first since assuming office on January 1, 2026, underscores Türkiye’s long-standing commitment to the D-8.
Mahmood’s trip comes at a pivotal moment for the D-8, as the organization seeks to enhance its impact on global economic dynamics. The D-8, comprised of Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Türkiye, aims to promote economic cooperation and development among its member nations. The Secretary-General’s discussions in Ankara centered on bolstering the D-8 Secretariat’s resources, streamlining its processes, and expanding its reach on the international stage. The focus on concrete outcomes ahead of the Jakarta summit signals a renewed push for tangible results from the organization.
Strengthening Ties with Turkish Leadership
During his engagements, Ambassador Mahmood held extensive discussions with senior Turkish leadership, including meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye with Deputy Ministers Musa Kulaklıkaya and Berris Ekinci. These meetings specifically addressed strengthening the Secretariat’s human and financial resource base, streamlining institutional processes, expanding international outreach, and ensuring concrete outcomes at the upcoming summit. He also met with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, expressing gratitude for Türkiye’s consistent support as the host country of the D-8 Secretariat.
Mahmood highlighted the geo-strategic and geo-economic importance of D-8 member states, noting Türkiye’s growing international profile through initiatives like the Antalya Diplomacy Forum and its Presidency of COP31. These initiatives, he argued, demonstrate Türkiye’s commitment to global cooperation and its leadership role in addressing pressing international challenges. The Secretary-General’s remarks underscore the importance of Türkiye as a key player within the D-8 and on the broader global stage.
Boosting Trade and Investment
Trade and economic cooperation were central themes in Ambassador Mahmood’s talks with Trade Minister Ömer Bolat. He welcomed Türkiye’s decision to host the permanent D-8 Chambers of Commerce and Industry Secretariat in Istanbul, describing it as a significant step towards deeper private-sector integration within the organization. This move is expected to facilitate increased trade and investment flows among D-8 member states.
The upcoming D-8 Business and Investment Forum and Halal Expo, to be held alongside the Jakarta Summit, were highlighted as key platforms for boosting intra-D-8 trade and investment. These events are designed to connect businesses from across the D-8, fostering partnerships and identifying new opportunities for economic collaboration. The focus on the private sector reflects a recognition of its crucial role in driving economic growth and development within the D-8.
Addressing Climate Change and Sustainable Development
Discussions with Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum focused on potential joint initiatives in climate resilience, green transformation, and sustainable urbanization across D-8 economies. These discussions reflect a growing awareness of the urgent need to address climate change and promote sustainable development, particularly in developing countries. Exploring collaborative projects in these areas could aid D-8 member states mitigate the impacts of climate change and build more resilient economies.
Beyond ministerial meetings, Ambassador Mahmood was received by Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz at the Presidential Complex and attended an Iftar hosted by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. He also engaged with media and industry leaders, including at TRT and the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB), to strengthen communication partnerships and business connectivity.
As the D-8 prepares for its annual summit in Jakarta, the momentum generated by Ambassador Mahmood’s visit to Türkiye signals a renewed commitment to strengthening economic cooperation and addressing shared challenges among its member states. The Jakarta Summit will be a crucial opportunity to translate these discussions into concrete actions and chart a course for the D-8’s future. The next key event will be the 12th D-8 Summit in Jakarta, where leaders are expected to announce new initiatives and commitments.
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