Bangkok, Thailand, 14 October 2026 – The Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, H.E. Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, emphasised the importance of economic competitiveness, strategic preparedness, and regional integration in strengthening resilience against global trade disruptions and economic shocks.

Speaking at a high-level panel discussion titled “Trade Diversification in Turbulent Times: Implications for Economic Stability and Growth,” held on the sidelines of the 2026 World Bank Group–IMF Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Dr. Al Jasser stressed that economic resilience depends not simply on diversifying trade, but on building competitive economies capable of adapting to changing global conditions.

He highlighted the importance of long-term planning and sustained investment in infrastructure, logistics, supply chains, and strategic productive capacity. Drawing on Saudi Arabia’s experience, he pointed to investments in energy infrastructure and productive capacity as examples of how advance planning can strengthen economic resilience before external shocks occur.

The IsDB Group Chairman also underscored the growing importance of regional integration, particularly for developing and landlocked countries. He noted that stronger regional cooperation can enhance competitiveness, support economic diversification, and create wider development opportunities.

Citing hydropower development in Tajikistan, Dr. Al Jasser illustrated how cross-border infrastructure investments can generate shared benefits, including clean energy, improved access to water resources, and increased agricultural productivity across neighbouring countries.

Highlighting the IsDB Group’s role in advancing regional trade cooperation, Dr. Al Jasser also referred to the Arab Africa Trade Bridges (AATB) Programme and the contribution of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) in supporting trade integration between Arab and African countries.

He further emphasised the importance of addressing trade distortions and non-tariff barriers to promote fair competition, strengthen economic competitiveness, and support sustainable growth.

Dr. Al Jasser stressed that regional integration should complement, rather than replace, the rules-based multilateral trading system, helping developing economies navigate global trade uncertainties while strengthening competitiveness, resilience, and sustainable growth.