Istanbul (TDI): The Developing Eight Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8) has highlighted the role of international trade diplomacy in strengthening economic partnerships, promoting sustainable development and contributing to global peace during the Global Youth Diplomacy Summit Türkiye 2026.
Mohd Syafik Firdaus Hasbullah, Director of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, participated as a panel speaker at the summit, held at Istanbul Ticaret University.
The event focused on “Football Diplomacy, 21st Century Security Issues and International Trade Diplomacy,” bringing together diplomats, government officials, academics, consultants and university students to discuss international cooperation and the evolving role of young people in global governance.
Speaking during a panel on international trade diplomacy, Syafik stressed the importance of strengthening economic cooperation among developing countries, particularly those in the Global South.
He called for practical and coordinated measures to reduce reliance on raw material exports and support a transition towards higher-value production, industrial development and technological advancement.
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He also emphasised the need for more equitable economic partnerships that enable developing countries to expand their productive capacity and strengthen their positions in global markets.
Syafik said economic interdependence could contribute to international peace, stability and prosperity when supported by economic diversification, fairness, mutual trust and respect for national sovereignty.
He argued that international trade should serve purposes beyond economic growth, including fostering mutual understanding, strengthening partnerships and promoting shared prosperity among nations.
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The D-8 representative also underscored the importance of regional economic cooperation in advancing sustainable development, improving economic resilience and creating greater opportunities for trade and investment.
He highlighted the need for inclusive and mutually beneficial partnerships to help countries address emerging global economic challenges and pursue development opportunities through closer collaboration.
The summit provided a platform to discuss how diplomacy can respond to changing international economic and security conditions, while highlighting the role of youth in shaping future approaches to global cooperation.
The emphasis on value-added production and technological development reflects broader concerns among developing economies about dependence on raw material exports and their ability to capture a greater share of value in international supply chains.
For countries across the Global South, closer regional cooperation can create opportunities to expand markets, encourage investment, share expertise and strengthen industrial capabilities.
Through its participation, the D-8 highlighted trade diplomacy as a means of advancing economic cooperation while building partnerships grounded in mutual benefit and respect for national sovereignty.
The discussions at the Global Youth Diplomacy Summit Türkiye 2026 reinforced the importance of connecting economic diplomacy with sustainable development, international dialogue and efforts to promote long-term global stability.
