Academic Dialogue Explores D-8 Economic Cooperation's Future Role in Global Challenges
A comprehensive discussion session focusing on the role and future trajectory of the D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation was successfully convened at the National Library of Pakistan. The event, formally titled "Towards the D-8 Summit: The Relevance of the D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation Amid Global Challenges," was orchestrated by the Embassy of Indonesia in Islamabad in partnership with the International Institute for Regional and International Studies, as confirmed by an official release issued on Friday.
Platform for Student and Diplomatic Engagement
The session served as a significant academic platform, fostering dialogue on the contemporary relevance of the D-8 in tackling pressing global economic issues. It successfully assembled Indonesian students pursuing their studies at the International Islamic University Islamabad alongside Pakistani scholars from several prestigious institutions, including:
- Quaid-i-Azam University
- National Defence University
- Bahria University
- Riphah International University
- National University of Modern Languages
The gathering commenced with welcoming remarks from IIRIS President Shafqat Rasool, who extended a warm reception to diplomats, speakers, and students from both Pakistan and Indonesia. He underscored the critical importance of academic engagement in fortifying multilateral cooperation and cultivating deeper mutual understanding among the member states of the D-8 Organisation.
Keynote Address on Strategic Collaboration
The keynote address was delivered by Dr M Saeed Uzzaman, head of the Department of International Relations at the National University of Modern Languages in Rawalpindi. His presentation, titled "Reinvigorating the D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation: The Strategic Role of Pakistan-Indonesia Collaboration," powerfully emphasised the latent potential of the D-8 to evolve into a dynamic and influential South-South economic bloc.
Dr Uzzaman articulated a clear vision, stating that the organisation could dramatically amplify its global impact if member states collectively pursued several strategic initiatives. He specifically highlighted the need to:
- Enhance and expand intra-D-8 trade significantly
- Address critical infrastructure and connectivity gaps
- Strengthen logistics networks and maritime integration
- Improve institutional capacity and governance frameworks
According to his detailed analysis, the successful implementation of such initiatives could propel intra-D-8 trade volumes to exceed $500 billion, contribute to a combined Gross Domestic Product ranging between $8 to $10 trillion, and generate more than 50 million new employment opportunities across the member nations.
Insights on Geopolitical Strength and Chairmanship Priorities
During the enriching session, Donny Ardiwidha, First Secretary for Political Affairs at the Indonesian Embassy, presented an insightful talk titled "The Strength of D-8 Countries in Global Competition." He drew attention to the formidable strategic geographical positions held by D-8 member states, noting their prime locations along three of the world's most vital maritime trade routes: the Strait of Malacca, the Suez Canal, and the Bosphorus Strait.
Another pivotal presentation was delivered by Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma, Coordinator for Information, Social and Cultural Affairs at the Indonesian Embassy. He provided a detailed outline of Indonesia's forthcoming chairmanship of the D-8 for the 2026-2027 term, highlighting its central thematic focus: "Navigating Global Shifts: Strengthening Equality, Solidarity, and Cooperation for Shared Prosperity."
Under Indonesia's proactive leadership, the organisation will prioritise several key areas for development and cooperation:
- Economic and trade integration
- Development of the halal economy
- Promotion of the blue economy and green transition initiatives
- Enhancing connectivity and driving digital transformation
- Implementing comprehensive institutional reform
Kusuma also made a significant announcement regarding the agenda for the upcoming D-8 Summit, confirming that a dedicated session on the Palestinian issue will be included. This event marked the second installment in a broader, ongoing discussion series initiated under Indonesia's chairmanship, reflecting a sustained commitment to dialogue and cooperative planning.
