ISLAMABAD: Ambassador Sohail Mahmood formally assumed the position ofSecretary-General of the Developing-8 (D-8) Organization for EconomicCooperation on January 3, 2026, marking a significant diplomaticachievement for Pakistan. The handover ceremony took place at the D-8Secretariat in Istanbul, where he succeeded Ambassador Isiaka AbdulqadirImam from Nigeria. This appointment underscores Pakistan’s influential rolewithin the bloc of major Muslim developing economies, enhancing prospectsfor deeper economic collaboration among member states.
The D-8 comprises nine countries with substantial Muslim populations andemerging economies: Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria,Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, which joined in 2024. Collectively, thesenations represent over one billion people and a combined GDP exceeding fivetrillion dollars. Headquartered in Istanbul, the organization focuses ontrade liberalization, investment promotion, and sectoral cooperation inareas such as agriculture, industry, and energy.
Ambassador Mahmood, a veteran diplomat with over four decades ofexperience, previously served as Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary from 2019 to2022. His tenure included navigating complex regional dynamics andstrengthening bilateral ties. More recently, he led the Institute ofStrategic Studies Islamabad, implementing reforms to bolster research andpolicy outreach. His selection followed Pakistan’s nomination and unanimousendorsement by member states.
In his initial remarks, Ambassador Mahmood emphasized the untappedpotential of D-8 cooperation. He committed to prioritizing theimplementation of the Decennial Roadmap 2020-2030, which aims to boostintra-D-8 trade from its current low levels to ambitious targets. Keyinitiatives include operationalizing the Preferential Trade Agreement andexploring new avenues like digital economy and sustainable developmentpartnerships.
President Asif Ali Zardari congratulated Ambassador Mahmood, describing theappointment as a source of national pride. He highlighted Pakistan’sfounding member status and stressed the need for institutional reforms toalign D-8 with global standards. The President expressed confidence thatMahmood would advance collective interests while safeguarding Pakistan’spriorities in economic diplomacy.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also extended bestwishes, noting that the role could reinvigorate the organization. Hepraised Mahmood’s contributions as former Foreign Secretary and think tankdirector. Pakistan’s active lobbying secured this rotational leadershipposition for a four-year term, reflecting its commitment to multilateralforums promoting South-South cooperation.
The D-8’s economic significance lies in its members’ aggregate resourcesand markets. Intra-bloc trade remains below potential, hampered bylogistical and regulatory barriers. Ambassador Mahmood’s leadership isexpected to address these through flagship projects, including technologytransfer networks and health protection programs, fostering resilientgrowth amid global uncertainties.
This development reinforces Pakistan’s multilateral engagement strategy. Asa founding member, Pakistan has consistently advocated for enhanced D-8mechanisms, such as dispute settlement protocols under the trade agreement.Mahmood’s expertise in regional and international affairs positions himwell to bridge diverse member perspectives toward shared prosperity.
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Analysts view this as a boost to Pakistan’s diplomatic profile,particularly in Islamic world forums. It aligns with efforts to diversifyeconomic partnerships beyond traditional allies, leveraging D-8 forincreased exports and investment inflows. The organization’s focus on youthempowerment and small enterprises resonates with member states’ demographicadvantages.
Ambassador Mahmood’s vision includes strengthening people-to-peoplecontacts and cultural ties. By aligning priorities with contemporarychallenges like climate resilience and digital transformation, he aims toelevate D-8’s relevance in global economic governance, ensuring equitablerepresentation for developing nations.
Source:https://www.app.com.pk/national/ambassador-sohail-mahmood-assumes-charge-of-secretary-general-of-d-8/
Tags: Pakistan, D-8 Organization, Sohail Mahmood, Istanbul, EconomicCooperation
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