A delegation from SESRIC, led by H.E. Zehra Zümrüt SELÇUK, participated in the Senior Officials’ Meeting preparatory to the 2^nd OIC Conference of Transport Ministers, which took place on 11 February 2026 in İstanbul.

The Meeting brought together representatives of OIC countries, the OIC General Secretariat, as well as relevant OIC institutions and international organisations to review progress and key initiatives in the transportation domain.

During the Meeting, H.E. SELÇUK briefed participants on SESRIC’s technical report titled “Transportation for Development in OIC Member Countries 2026: Implications for Trade and Tourism & Challenges for Landlocked Countries”, prepared at the request of the OIC General Secretariat. The report examines the current state of transport infrastructure and logistics in OIC countries, identifies major challenges, and outlines policy considerations for improving connectivity. In her remarks, she emphasized that transportation is a key driver of economic development, particularly for developing countries, while noting that unsustainable transport practices generate significant environmental and social costs. H.E. SELÇUK underscored the need to accelerate the transition towards sustainable transport systems aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She further highlighted that, despite notable progress in recent years, transport networks across OIC countries require continued investment and development across all modes to better facilitate the movement of people and goods and support long-term economic growth. The report was officially launched during the Conference.

In another session of the Meeting dedicated to developing transport infrastructure and capacity in OIC countries, Dr. Esat BAKIMLI, Coordinator at SESRIC Research Department, delivered a presentation highlighting the Centre’s role through its statistical, research, and capacity-building mandates. The presentation emphasized the importance of aligning infrastructure investments with strong institutional frameworks, data-informed policymaking, and sustained capacity development. It also underscored the importance of evidence-based policy dialogue in strengthening institutional readiness and supporting the development of more integrated and resilient transport systems across the OIC.

The Meeting concluded with the consideration of proposals for the next Conference and the review of draft resolutions.

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