Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called on D-8 countries to enhance cooperation and build stronger economic and political ties during the summit in Cairo.
Addressing leaders from Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey, Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of multilateralism and developing collective benefits among Islamic nations.
“We must preserve existing friendships while forging new bonds through multilateral cooperation,” he said. “Establishing smart economic and trade networks among nations reflects the will of the majority of countries.”
Pezeshkian proposed several initiatives to boost economic collaboration, including establishing a D-8 Joint Bank of Ideas, creating technology hubs, and organizing scientific tours and exchange programs.
He highlighted the potential of young entrepreneurs in driving development and advocated for greater investment in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to address youth employment challenges. Iran, he said, is ready to lead efforts to foster synergy in economic fields and support innovation-driven projects.
“The D-8 Technology Transfer Network, with its secretariat in Tehran, could play a crucial role in advancing youth-oriented initiatives and promoting knowledge-based industries,” Pezeshkian said.
He noted the trade volume among D-8 members remains below the organization’s 2030 vision, urging accelerated efforts under Egypt’s presidency. Barter trade, he suggested, could be a key mechanism for boosting economic activity between member states.
The president also announced that Iran would host the upcoming D-8 Permanent Committee on Communications and Information Technology, offering to collaborate with member states on advancing digital and technological capabilities.
Pezeshkian also emphasized the need for unity among Islamic countries to counter external threats, particularly Israeli aggression. “It is our religious, legal, and humanitarian duty to take immediate and practical measures to protect those in crisis-hit areas,” he said, calling for collective action from D-8 nations.
His visit to Cairo marks the first by an Iranian president in 11 years, signaling potential progress in Iran-Egypt relations. Pezeshkian described the summit as an opportunity to deepen bilateral ties with Egypt while strengthening multilateral collaboration within the D-8 framework.
The D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, established in 1997, aims to foster economic partnerships among its member countries. This year’s summit in Cairo focuses on empowering SMEs, leveraging technology, and addressing pressing regional and global challenges.