Istanbul (GNP): Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8) Secretary-General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood has called for renewed collective action to build, maintain and sustain peace, marking the International Day of Peace on September 21.
In a message shared for the observance, Ambassador Mahmood highlighted the continuing human and economic costs of armed conflicts, unresolved disputes and a range of traditional and non-traditional security challenges.
He emphasized that these pressures not only claim lives but also create significant economic costs and hinder progress toward sustainable development.
The D-8 Secretary-General said the International Day of Peace provides an opportunity to renew commitments to understanding, reconciliation and the peaceful resolution of differences through dialogue and diplomacy.
The 2026 International Day of Peace was observed under the theme “Invest in Peace: For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.”
The United Nations said the theme recognizes people working at community level to build stability and encourages individuals, institutions and governments to contribute to peace through everyday action.
Ambassador Mahmood’s message reflects the broader international focus on diplomacy and dialogue as tools for addressing disputes.
He stressed the importance of resolving differences through peaceful means, while underscoring the need for collective responsibility in responding to security challenges.
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The United Nations has similarly emphasized that peace extends beyond the absence of war and is connected to safety, dignity, opportunity and cooperation.
In his 2026 message, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for investment in sustainable development, human rights, dialogue, negotiation and peacebuilding.
The UN also notes that the International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the General Assembly. In 2001, the Assembly unanimously designated September 21 as a period of non-violence and cease-fire.
For the D-8, the peace message comes as the organization continues to expand cooperation among its member states across economic and development priorities.
The D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation was established in 1997 and works to strengthen cooperation among its members in areas including trade, agriculture, transportation, industry, energy and tourism.
Ambassador Mahmood assumed the position of D-8 Secretary-General in January 2026. The organization’s official records show that during his tenure he has engaged with member states and international partners on economic integration, industrial cooperation, energy, climate action, health, youth and other areas of regional cooperation.
His International Day of Peace message also places peace in the context of sustainable development. Prolonged conflicts can disrupt trade, investment, infrastructure and human development, making stability and peaceful cooperation important considerations for countries pursuing economic growth.
The United Nations’ 2026 Peace Day campaign similarly connects peace with sustainable development, inclusive communities and respect for human rights and dignity.
It calls on people everywhere to contribute to peace through actions such as supporting others, encouraging constructive dialogue and promoting stories of peace and hope.
As countries continue to face armed conflicts, geopolitical tensions and other security challenges, the D-8 message highlights dialogue and diplomacy as mechanisms for addressing differences and encouraging reconciliation.
Ambassador Mahmood concluded his message by emphasizing the importance of investing in peace for everyone and everywhere, echoing the central theme of this year’s International Day of Peace and its call for sustained action rather than a once-a-year commitment.
