ISTANBUL, JUN 24 /DNA/ – The Secretary-General of the Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8), Isiaka Abdulkadir Imam, issued a powerful statement today commemorating the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, lauding the “exceptional contributions” of female diplomats across the member states and calling for accelerated institutional support to ensure their full participation in global affairs.
In a message released from the D-8 headquarters, the Secretary-General emphasized that in an era defined by “complex, multifaceted challenges,” nations cannot afford to exclude half of their talent pool. He noted that across the D-8 Member States—which include Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey—women are increasingly assuming “prominent roles” in foreign policy, multilateral negotiations, and international engagement.
“Women are contributing with distinction to diplomacy and public service through their leadership,” the Secretary-General stated. “From heading critical missions to driving intense multilateral negotiations, they bring diverse perspectives and foster more inclusive approaches to global problem-solving. Their achievements reflect a broader transformation toward more representative and effective diplomacy.”
The statement highlights a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Global South, where female diplomats from D-8 countries are not only representing their nations but are also shaping the agenda on peace, sustainable development, and economic cooperation.
However, the Secretary-General stressed that symbolic recognition is insufficient. He used the occasion to urge member states to move beyond rhetoric, calling for concrete action to “support and empower women in diplomacy by ensuring equal opportunities, strengthening institutional frameworks, and promoting environments where their voices are fully heard and valued.”
The D-8, established in 1997 to improve developing countries’ positions in the world economy, has increasingly focused on integrating gender equality into its economic cooperation framework. The Secretary-General reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to further advancing women’s “pivotal roles in peace, sustainable development, and lasting progress,” specifically highlighting their role in “building bridges of dialogue, cooperation, and understanding among nations.”
The International Day of Women in Diplomacy, established by the United Nations, is observed annually on June 24 to celebrate the contributions of women to diplomacy and to advocate for their increased representation in international affairs.
