D-8 Secretary-General Highlights Business Networks in Economic Cooperation
The Secretary-General of the Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8), Sohail Mahmood, recently emphasized the increasing significance of business networks in fostering economic cooperation among member states. He also reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to enhancing its partnership with the Turkish business community. This statement was made during the Traditional Diplomatic Missions Iftar Programme hosted by MUSIAD at its headquarters in Istanbul.
Ambassador Mahmood expressed appreciation to Burhan Ozdemir for the invitation and the warm hospitality provided to diplomats and guests who attended the event. He described MUSIAD as a powerful platform for independent industrialists and businessmen with extensive international reach. The organization, he noted, plays a crucial role in promoting entrepreneurship, trade linkages, and business collaboration across different regions.
Institutional Evolution and Expansion of D-8
In addition to highlighting the role of MUSIAD, Ambassador Mahmood discussed the institutional evolution of the D-8 and its recent expansion. He pointed out that the organization continues to reinforce its economic cooperation agenda among member states. This effort is aimed at creating more opportunities for mutual growth and development within the D-8 framework.
He also shared details about upcoming business-related events planned in conjunction with the next D-8 summit, which is set to be held in Jakarta. These events are expected to serve as platforms for deeper interaction between policymakers, investors, and the private sector. The focus will be on areas such as trade, investment, and industrial collaboration.
Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Growth
Reaffirming the D-8’s commitment to closer engagement with MUSIAD, Ambassador Mahmood stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation between the D-8 and leading business networks. Such partnerships, he argued, would help unlock new avenues for economic collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth among member states.
The Iftar gathering brought together a diverse group of participants, including members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and representatives from international organizations. This event served as an important opportunity for networking and dialogue among key stakeholders in the region.
Key Points from the Address
- Ambassador Mahmood highlighted the growing influence of business networks in advancing economic cooperation among D-8 member states.
- He expressed gratitude to MUSIAD for hosting the Iftar programme and praised the organization for its role in promoting entrepreneurship and trade.
- The D-8’s institutional evolution and expansion were discussed, emphasizing the organization’s ongoing efforts to strengthen economic cooperation.
- Upcoming business engagements alongside the D-8 summit in Jakarta were outlined, with a focus on enhancing trade, investment, and industrial collaboration.
- The importance of strengthening ties with business networks like MUSIAD was reiterated, as it could lead to new opportunities for sustainable growth.
- The Iftar event provided a platform for meaningful interactions between diplomats, business leaders, and international representatives.






