Regional connectivity and trade development are gaining strategic importance in Central Asia, Azerbaijan and across the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) region, CEO of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) Adeeb Al Aama said during the session titled “Enhancing Trade Solutions for Regional Connectivity” held within the framework of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Annual Meetings in Baku, APA reports.
He highly praised Azerbaijan for hosting the event.
“We would like to thank the Government of Azerbaijan for the excellent organization of the 2026 IsDB Group Annual Meetings and the Private Sector Forum, for its hospitality, and for its support in holding this important gathering,” Al Aama said.
He noted that the region is located at the crossroads of major trade corridors connecting Asia, Europe and other destinations.
“This region is at the center of major trade corridors. However, businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, face real challenges. These include access to trade finance, entry into markets, and participation in regional and global value chains,” he said.
The ITFC chief stressed that regional connectivity is not merely about moving goods across borders.
“For us, regional connectivity is a much broader concept. It means promoting trade, strengthening value chains, increasing SME participation, and building sustainable and inclusive trade ecosystems,” he said.
According to him, achieving this goal requires a comprehensive approach.
“This requires combining trade finance, trade development and strong institutional partnerships. The purpose of today's session is to bring together policymakers, financial institutions, the private sector and development partners to discuss how trade solutions can strengthen regional connectivity,” Al Aama noted.
He added that partnerships should be transformed into practical cooperation and new economic opportunities.
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