Azerbaijan Joins the D-8 Organization

By Qaiser Nawab, President Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development BRISD

Azerbaijan has officially joined the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, marking a historic milestone for the coalition of developing nations.

As the newest member of the organization, Azerbaijan, will now move forward to
complete the accession process by ratifying the D-8 Charter, as the ninth member of the D-8.

Azerbaijan became the ninth member of the D-8 at the organization’s 11th Summit held in Cairo, Egypt last Thursday.

This development not only expands the organization’s reach but also underscores Azerbaijan’s growing prominence as a global player in economic and multilateral diplomacy.

The D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, established in 1997, is a coalition of eight Muslim-majority developing nations: Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey.

Its primary objectives are to improve member states’ positions in the global economy, diversify trade relations, promote sustainable development, and enhance participation in international decision-making.

With Azerbaijan becoming its ninth member, the D-8 embraces its first expansion since its founding. The addition signals the organization’s evolving and inclusive nature, as well as its commitment to fostering global partnerships.

Azerbaijan’s decision to join the D-8 reflects its long-term vision of diversifying its economic partnerships and strengthening ties with developing nations. Under the visionary leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan has emerged as a proactive nation, committed to multilateralism, sustainable development, and economic innovation.

Located strategically at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan offers unique advantages, including a dynamic economy and vast energy resources. These strengths make it a valuable addition to the D-8, complementing the organization’s efforts to promote regional connectivity and economic integration.

Joining the D-8 is a natural progression for Azerbaijan, aligning with its foreign policy goals of fostering regional and international collaboration. The decision also showcases Azerbaijan’s readiness to contribute to a shared vision of prosperity and innovation.

The D-8 serves as a vital platform for its members to address global economic and political challenges collectively. For Azerbaijan, joining this coalition provides access to a dynamic network of nations working together to enhance trade, technology, and sustainable development.

Membership in the D-8 offers Azerbaijan opportunities to engage in policy-making processes that shape global economic agendas. It also allows the nation to share its expertise, particularly in energy and logistics, with like-minded partners striving for mutual growth.

The D-8’s emphasis on justice, cooperation, and inclusivity resonates strongly with Azerbaijan’s principles, further solidifying the nation’s commitment to global collaboration.

President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership has been pivotal in Azerbaijan’s journey toward becoming a global player. His strategic vision and commitment to sustainable development have elevated Azerbaijan’s standing in international forums.

Under his guidance, Azerbaijan has successfully hosted significant global events, such as the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP-29). This achievement underscores the country’s ability to lead on pressing global issues, including climate change and environmental sustainability.

By joining the D-8, Azerbaijan reinforces its dedication to multilateralism. Its membership signals a willingness to contribute to collective efforts addressing global challenges, setting a positive example for other nations.

Azerbaijan’s inclusion in the D-8 brings immense potential to the organization, particularly in areas like energy, logistics, and environmental sustainability. The country’s expertise in energy production and distribution, exemplified by projects like the Southern Gas Corridor, offers opportunities for collaboration that can enhance energy security among member states.

Additionally, Azerbaijan’s leadership in hosting COP-29 highlights its commitment to addressing global environmental challenges. This aligns seamlessly with the D-8’s focus on sustainable development and innovation, setting the stage for transformative initiatives within the organization.

Azerbaijan’s strategic location further strengthens the D-8’s connectivity goals. By serving as a bridge between Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan can facilitate trade routes and infrastructure projects that benefit the entire coalition.

Azerbaijan’s membership in the D-8 also reinforces its bilateral relations with existing members, particularly Pakistan and Turkey. These nations share a history of mutual support and collaboration, and Azerbaijan’s inclusion provides new avenues for joint projects and regional initiatives.

For Pakistan, Azerbaijan’s entry is a step toward enhancing regional connectivity and fostering economic cooperation. Both countries have consistently advocated for multilateralism and share a vision of regional prosperity. The D-8 platform offers an opportunity to build on these shared goals, particularly in trade, technology, and sustainable development.

Turkey, another key ally, welcomes Azerbaijan’s participation as an extension of their deep-rooted partnership. This addition strengthens the organization’s overall cohesion and amplifies its collective voice on the global stage.

Azerbaijan’s decision to join the D-8 is part of its broader strategy to expand its economic partnerships and assert its role as a key player in global diplomacy. The move aligns with President Aliyev’s vision of transforming Azerbaijan into a hub for innovation, sustainability, and regional cooperation.

By actively participating in the D-8, Azerbaijan demonstrates its commitment to fostering a more inclusive and interconnected global economy. This vision is further supported by its achievements in hosting global events, promoting renewable energy, and addressing climate change.

The D-8 has set ambitious goals for the future, focusing on increasing intra-member trade, fostering technological innovation, and promoting sustainable development. With Azerbaijan now part of the coalition, these goals are more attainable than ever.

The organization aims to reach $500 billion in intra-member trade by 2030, leveraging the strengths of its diverse members. In technology, the D-8 seeks to facilitate knowledge sharing and innovation, ensuring that all member states benefit from advancements in various fields.

Sustainability remains at the core of the D-8’s agenda. Initiatives aimed at addressing environmental challenges, promoting renewable energy, and ensuring food security are integral to the organization’s vision. Azerbaijan’s expertise in these areas positions it as a valuable contributor to these efforts.

Azerbaijan’s membership in the D-8 marks the beginning of a new chapter for the organization. With its resources, strategic location, and commitment to innovation, Azerbaijan is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the D-8’s future.

This milestone highlights the evolving nature of the D-8 as an inclusive and forward-looking coalition. By welcoming Azerbaijan, the organization demonstrates its readiness to adapt to changing global dynamics and embrace new opportunities for growth.

Azerbaijan’s decision to join the D-8 is a testament to its strategic vision and dedication to global collaboration. As the organization’s newest member, Azerbaijan brings fresh perspectives, valuable resources, and a commitment to addressing shared challenges.

Under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership, Azerbaijan continues to rise as a beacon of progress, innovation, and multilateralism. Its participation in the D-8 is not just an achievement for the country but a promising development for the entire organization.

As the D-8 moves forward, Azerbaijan’s inclusion will undoubtedly contribute to a stronger, more united coalition of developing nations. Together, they are well-positioned to foster economic prosperity, promote sustainable development, and strengthen their collective voice in international decision-making.

This new partnership between Azerbaijan and the D-8 symbolizes a shared vision for a brighter, more interconnected future for all member states.

About Author:

Qaiser Nawab is a global expert on multilateralism and currently serving as the President of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD). He can be reached at qaisernawab098@gmail.com