D-8 Secretary General Warns of Global Conflict Escalation, Praises Türkiye’s Peace Mediation Role

In an exclusive interview with Yeni Şafak, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Secretary General of the Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8), cautioned that the world is facing an unprecedented surge in armed conflicts, threatening both political stability and economic resilience.

“We are witnessing a very large number of conflicts around the world,” Mahmood said, noting that at least 54 military confrontations are currently ongoing. “That means more than 100 countries are directly or indirectly engaged,” he added, highlighting the widespread reach and complexity of global instability.

Global Economy Under Strain

Mahmood stressed that wars severely disrupt economic activity across all regions. “Energy security has become a major challenge,” he warned. “When the energy sector suffers, it has a multiplier effect on all other sectors of the economy.” He pointed to the growing difficulties in communication, transportation, and trade as further evidence of how conflict undermines economic vitality.

The Imperative of Peace and Diplomacy

Describing the present era as “very dangerous times,” the D-8 chief underscored the urgency of pursuing peace through dialogue rather than military means. “No dispute can be permanently settled through military means,” he noted. “What is essential is recognizing the importance of diplomacy and bringing conflicts to an end through peaceful negotiation.”

Türkiye’s Growing Role in Mediation

Ambassador Mahmood commended Türkiye’s active engagement in peace efforts around the world, citing its mediation initiatives in Africa, its facilitation of the Black Sea Grain Deal between Russia and Ukraine, and efforts to foster dialogue between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

He also acknowledged Ankara’s current efforts to help resolve conflicts in the Middle East. “Türkiye has been playing a very important role in mediating conflicts, and these efforts deserved to be welcomed and supported,” he said.

“The Only Sustainable Path Forward”

Concluding his remarks, Mahmood called on the international community to reinforce diplomatic initiatives wherever possible. “The world must support all countries that are working toward peace,” he said. “Diplomacy, not warfare, is the only sustainable path forward.”