Türkiye Backs Reforms to Strengthen Developing Eight Organization
Türkiye has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting reforms aimed at enhancing the international effectiveness of the Developing Eight (D-8) organization, an economic partnership established by eight developing countries. The pledge was made by Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz during a meeting with D-8 Secretary-General Sohail Mahmood in Ankara on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Strengthening the D-8
Vice President Yılmaz emphasized Türkiye’s “sincere and strong support” for the transformation process of the D-8, highlighting its founding role in the organization. Discussions between Yılmaz and Mahmood focused on making the D-8 more dynamic, project-oriented, and results-driven. The recent accession of Azerbaijan was also noted as a positive development, creating fresh momentum within the bloc.
Efforts to strengthen the D-8 Secretariat, both institutionally and financially, were also discussed to improve coordination among member states. Yılmaz stated that Türkiye will continue to actively support these reforms to bolster the organization’s global impact.
Upcoming D-8 Summit
The meeting also touched upon the upcoming D-8 Summit, scheduled to take place in Jakarta, Indonesia, on April 14–15, 2026. Yılmaz expressed hope for positive outcomes from the summit that would benefit all member states. He thanked Secretary-General Mahmood for his visit and wished him well in preparations for the event.
About the D-8
The Developing Eight (D-8) is an inter-governmental organization for economic cooperation, established in 1996 by Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Türkiye. The organization aims to promote economic cooperation among its member states and enhance their position in the global economy. Daily Sabah
Türkiye’s Economic Outlook
This commitment to the D-8 comes as Türkiye anticipates improvements in its financial conditions in 2026. Vice President Yılmaz also indicated positive expectations for foreign direct investment (FDI) flows to developing countries. Daily Sabah
Recent meetings between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also demonstrate Türkiye’s focus on strengthening ties within the Turkic world. Hurriyet Daily News