OIC Representative Calls for Economic Support and Eased Banking Restrictions for Afghanistan at Istanbul Meeting

Tariq Ali Bakhit, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s special representative for Afghanistan, addressed delegates at the Afghanistan Coordination Group meeting in Istanbul, urging sustained international engagement and financial assistance to stabilize the country’s economy. The three-day meeting concluded on April 30, 2026.

During the session, Bakhit emphasized the need for continued humanitarian aid, particularly in the areas of food security and healthcare. He called on international partners to coordinate efforts to ease existing banking restrictions, stating that improved financial access is essential to alleviating civilian hardship and supporting early recovery initiatives.

Representatives highlighted the role of several Organization of Islamic Cooperation-affiliated institutions in supporting Afghanistan’s reconstruction and development efforts. The Islamic Development Bank, the Islamic Organization for Food Security, and the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre were identified as key partners in delivering targeted assistance and facilitating long-term economic stabilization.

Bakhit reiterated the organization’s commitment to maintaining constructive dialogue with international stakeholders regarding Afghanistan’s ongoing challenges. He stressed that coordinated action and sustained economic support remain critical to addressing the country’s humanitarian needs and fostering conditions for sustainable development.

The Afghanistan Coordination Group, which convened from April 28 to April 30, provided a platform for regional and international actors to discuss strategies for supporting Afghanistan’s economic and humanitarian recovery. Delegates focused on aligning aid delivery mechanisms and exploring pathways to improve financial connectivity for Afghan institutions.