Erdoğan urges OIC transport integration to unlock Islamic world's economic potential

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has urged member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to deepen transport integration, warning that the Islamic world's vast economic potential cannot be unlocked without efficient and reliable connectivity. Delivering a video message to the OIC transport ministers meeting in Istanbul on Thursday, Erdoğan stressed that Muslim nations span a critical geography stretching from Asia to Africa and Europe to the Middle East.

From Geography to Strategic Power

"The Islamic world commands natural corridors, a dynamic young population, and fast-growing markets," Erdoğan stated. "However, to fully realize this great potential and transform geographical advantages into strategic power, we need efficient, reliable, and integrated transport networks." He emphasized that stronger links among highways, railways, ports, and airports would boost not only trade but also social and cultural interaction among member states.

Türkiye's Infrastructure Vision

The President highlighted Türkiye's recent large-scale infrastructure projects—including the Marmaray rail tunnel, Eurasia Tunnel, and major bridges—as contributions reinforcing global trade routes. He noted that through Ankara's support for the Trans-Caspian East-West Middle Corridor Project, the historic Silk Road is being revived with a modern vision. "However, we do not evaluate these investments solely within a national framework," Erdoğan said. "Our goal is to strengthen integration with OIC member states, develop cross-border corridors, and generate added value through joint projects."

Roadmap Under Turkish Term Presidency

Erdoğan announced that constructive negotiations during the conference produced significant decisions, including a roadmap to strengthen transport links, enhance solidarity on international platforms, and prepare a transport connectivity strategy document under Türkiye's OIC term presidency. "Undoubtedly, for these decisions to be implemented effectively, it is important that technical meetings are not disrupted and that monitoring mechanisms are operated meticulously," he added. "We believe that the will we have demonstrated today will pave the way for this."