Regional integration is a practical mechanism for accelerating development, Issa Faye, Director General of the Global Practice and Partnerships Department of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), said during the panel discussion titled “Drivers of Regional Integration in IsDB Regions” held as part of the IsDB Group Annual Meetings 2026 in Baku, APA reports.
“We should view regional integration not merely as a concept, but as a mechanism that generates real economic outcomes. The key issue is to transform ideas into solutions, potential into prosperity, and cooperation into concrete action,” he noted.
He stated that the event is taking place at a time of growing global economic uncertainty, shifts in trade flows and increasing geopolitical tensions.
“Global supply chains are being reshaped, new trade corridors are emerging, and development challenges are becoming more complex. In such circumstances, stronger regional cooperation has become an important factor for resilience, competitiveness and sustainable development,” he stressed.
Issa Faye noted that regional integration is not limited to interstate relations.
“Regional integration means that a young entrepreneur in one country gains access to larger markets, businesses can operate more easily across borders, and countries are connected not only through infrastructure but also through a shared vision and common policies,” he said.
According to him, the level of regional integration among IsDB member countries still falls short of its potential.
“Trade among member countries accounts for only 20% of total trade. This figure is below the 25% target set by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Infrastructure gaps and policy inconsistencies are limiting the pace of integration,” Faye noted.
He emphasized that there is no single model for regional integration that applies to all countries.
“Each region has its own characteristics. However, one fact remains unchanged: countries can achieve faster results by learning from each other’s experiences,” he added.
Issa Faye stated that the IsDB considers regional integration to be one of the key tools for accelerating development and structures its activities in this area around four priorities.
“We support member countries in increasing productivity, improving the investment climate, deepening trade and financial integration, and expanding regional public goods,” he stressed.
Concluding his remarks, the Director General called on participants to focus not only on the benefits of regional integration, but also on the factors hindering its implementation.
“If the benefits of regional integration are well known to everyone, then what is preventing us from moving forward more quickly? Finding the answer to this question and identifying transformative actions is our main task,” Issa Faye said.
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