Egypt Assumes Leadership of D-8 Organization, Sets Agenda for Inclusive Growth

The Egypt Foreign Ministry says Egypt will receive the presidency of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation this month in its efforts to enhance regional collaboration and economic development. The Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for International and Regional Multilateral Economic Affairs, Ragi Al-Etreby, made the announcement.

Al-Etreby outlined the country’s priorities to include empowering women and youth through initiatives centered around small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with focus on driving economic inclusion by promoting SMEs, which are vital for job creation and innovation, and improving livelihoods across member states.

Part of the plans he added, involves utilizing advancements in communication and information technology to boost development and trade, and prioritize strengthening collaboration among D-8 member states which includes establishing networks for diplomatic training institutes and economic research centers to facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building.

Such initiatives according to Al-Etreby, aim to bolster the economic resilience and cooperation of the member nations.

Previously held by Bangladesh, Egypt’s tenure as D-8 president will last until the end of 2025.

The D-8, formally known as the Developing-8 founded in June 1997 in Istanbul, Turkey, comprises of eight populous Muslim-majority countries, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey.

It focuses on improving economic positions, diversifying trade relations, enhancing international decision-making participation, and raising living standards among its members.