Azerbaijan has officially become the newest member of the Developing Eight (D-8) Organization, following a unanimous election at the group’s 11th summit in Cairo, Egypt. The country’s Foreign Ministry confirmed this development in a statement released on Thursday, highlighting the significance of this move both for Azerbaijan and for the broader international community.
A Historic Expansion for the D-8
For the first time since its founding in 1997, the D-8 Organization has expanded by admitting a new member. The inclusion of Azerbaijan marks a historic moment in the organization’s evolution, showcasing its growing influence and the increasing interest in participating in this multilateral economic bloc. The D-8, often referred to as the “Islamic Eight,” now consists of nine members, which include Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan. The organization’s Secretariat is based in Istanbul, Turkey.
Economic and Political Significance
The D-8 is an important platform for cooperation among developing countries, representing approximately 60% of the global Muslim population. Collectively, the member states have a combined population of around 1.2 billion people and contribute about 5% to global commerce, with a foreign trade volume of $2.3 trillion. Azerbaijan’s membership is expected to bring new economic opportunities to the country and further strengthen the bloc’s regional influence.
Azerbaijan’s entry into the D-8 is seen as a clear indicator of its growing international stature. As a country strategically positioned between the East and West, Azerbaijan is poised to play a crucial role in advancing the goals of the organization. Its membership is expected to foster increased cooperation in various sectors, including trade, transport, communication, and security. These areas are pivotal for enhancing regional stability and promoting mutual prosperity among D-8 members.
Azerbaijan’s Role in Strengthening Islamic Solidarity
Azerbaijan’s membership in the D-8 also underscores its commitment to promoting Islamic solidarity and addressing global challenges such as Islamophobia. The country, which serves as a cultural, religious, and civilizational hub in the Islamic world, is well-positioned to contribute to the strengthening of Islamic values and the promotion of peace and stability within the organization.
By joining the D-8, Azerbaijan is enhancing its role as a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures, reflecting its importance as a key player in global geopolitics. This is expected to pave the way for deeper engagement with other Islamic countries and institutions, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), of which all D-8 members are also a part.
The Future of the D-8 Organization
The D-8 Organization has long focused on economic cooperation and development, aiming to create a platform for dialogue and collaboration among its member states. With Azerbaijan’s inclusion, the organization is likely to see enhanced efforts in fostering trade relations, promoting cultural exchanges, and addressing shared challenges such as climate change, food security, and energy needs.
As Azerbaijan embarks on this new chapter as a member of the D-8, the country is poised to play a central role in advancing the organization’s vision of prosperity, security, and stability. The strategic location of Azerbaijan, its economic potential, and its commitment to Islamic solidarity will undoubtedly contribute to the strengthening of the D-8 as an influential force in global affairs.
Azerbaijan’s accession to the D-8 Organization is a momentous step towards reinforcing the country’s international presence and fostering deeper cooperation within the Islamic world. As the newest member of this economic bloc, Azerbaijan will play a pivotal role in enhancing regional stability, advancing economic growth, and promoting Islamic values worldwide. This development marks not only a historic achievement for Azerbaijan but also a significant milestone for the D-8 Organization, which continues to evolve and expand its influence on the global stage.
Related Stories:
D-8 Summit 2024 in Egypt: Key Highlights and Outcomes
Iran’s president calls for unity among D-8 to stop Israeli assaults
