Turkish president calls for stronger transport integration among Muslim nations

ANKARA

Türkiye’s president on Thursday called for stronger transport integration among members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), saying that effective and reliable networks are essential to unlocking the Islamic world’s economic potential.

In a video message to an OIC transport ministers meeting in Istanbul, Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Muslim countries span a vast geography stretching from Asia to Africa and Europe to the Middle East, commanding natural corridors, a dynamic young population, and fast-growing markets.

“However, to fully realize this great potential and transform geographical advantages into strategic power, we need efficient, reliable, and integrated transport networks,” he said.

Erdogan said stronger links among highways, railways, ports, and airports would boost not only trade but also social and cultural interaction among member states.

Highlighting Türkiye’s recent large-scale infrastructure projects, including the Marmaray rail tunnel, Eurasia Tunnel, and major bridges, Erdogan said the country has reinforced global trade routes and expanded its rail, maritime, and aviation capacity.

Erdogan said that through Türkiye’s support for the Trans-Caspian East-West Middle Corridor Project, the country has revived the historic Silk Road with a modern vision.

“However, we do not evaluate these investments solely within a national framework,” he said. “Our goal is to strengthen integration with member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, develop cross-border corridors, and generate added value through joint projects.”

Erdogan noted that constructive negotiations held during the conference had led to significant steps.

“We have made important decisions to create a roadmap that will strengthen transport links among member states, increase solidarity on international platforms, and prepare a transport connectivity strategy document under Türkiye’s (OIC) term presidency,” the president said.

“Undoubtedly, in order for these decisions to be implemented effectively, it is important that technical meetings are not disrupted and that monitoring mechanisms are operated meticulously. We believe that the will we have demonstrated today will pave the way for this,” he added.