ISLAMABAD: The Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8) is seeking to expand its global visibility and strengthen international awareness of its economic agenda as it prepares to mark the 30th anniversary of its establishment in 2027.

D-8 Secretary-General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Pakistan’s former foreign secretary, visited TRT World headquarters in Istanbul, where he met TRT Deputy Director General Ahmet Görmez and senior members of his team, including TRT World Director Hamza Bayrak.

They discussed the D-8’s founding vision, historical evolution, present trajectory and future outlook, as well as ways to deepen their collaboration.

In a post on X, Ambassador Mahmood said, “Noting the long-standing collaboration between D-8 and TRT, we discussed ways to further deepen and broaden our partnership.”

He described the meeting as “highly fruitful.”

“It was agreed to develop joint activities aimed at enhanced global awareness and international visibility of the D-8 Organisation and its core mission of economic cooperation and integration among member states,” he added.

Ambassador Mahmood was also invited by TRT World’s Economics Desk to share his views on intra-D-8 trade, the halal industry, and Türkiye’s contributions to the organization’s journey, achievements and future plans.

Founded in 1997, the D-8 brings together Pakistan, Türkiye, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria and Azerbaijan, with a focus on strengthening economic cooperation, trade and integration among its member states.

Ambassador Mahmood said both sides would work closely to “forge practical cooperation” on the ideas discussed during the visit, particularly in the run-up to the organization’s 30th anniversary.

D8 organization

D-8 secretary-general visits TRT World HQ to deepen cooperation