Baku, Republic of Azerbaijan, 18 June 2026 – H.E. Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, highlighted the growing importance of regional integration as a pathway to resilience, prosperity, and sustainable development during a Fireside Chat held on the sidelines of the 2026 IsDB Group Annual Meetings in Baku.

Moderated by internationally renowned TV host and conference moderator Mr. Ali Aslan, the session brought together ministers, IsDB Governors, development partners, and private sector leaders for a forward-looking discussion on the power of connectivity and cooperation in an increasingly uncertain world.

Dr. Al Jasser noted that regional integration is no longer simply a regional agenda, but a proven development model that helps countries overcome geographic constraints and unlock new growth opportunities.

From Central Asia and Africa to the GCC and beyond, he pointed to examples of countries investing in transport corridors, trade links, and cross-border energy networks to strengthen economic ties and build resilience. “Integration is not limited to one region,” he said. “It is happening everywhere, and its potential to drive development must be fully harnessed.”

Speaking about the IsDB Group’s approach, Dr. Al Jasser emphasized that meaningful development begins with listening to member countries and working alongside them to identify practical solutions that respond to their needs and aspirations. He also underscored the importance of rekindling hope, noting that real impact is measured not only through financing volumes but through tangible improvements in people’s lives, expanded opportunities, and stronger economic prospects for communities.

On the role of Islamic finance, Dr. Al Jasser highlighted the IsDB Group’s strong financial foundation, noting that the Bank has issued more than US$50 billion in Sukuk, including US$5 billion in Green Sukuk, while maintaining its AAA credit rating. He added that the Group aims to significantly expand its development financing over the coming years.

Dr. Al Jasser pointed to concrete examples of IsDB’s impact on the ground, including a road project in the Gambia that reduced travel time between two towns from twelve hours to four. “That is integration,” he said. “That is what hope looks like on the ground.”  The session closed with a clear message: development that does not reach people is not development at all.