"If they reduce the tariffs between themselves, so even any kind of tariff threats happen from outside, from the United States or from other countries that they like to make problems for the international trade and investment, will no longer be effective,” said the ambassador in a special interview with ANTARA, here on Friday.
He noted that policies by some countries to impose higher tariffs on others, including developing nations, are counterproductive.
Therefore, if D-8 members deepen cooperation, they can explore both tariff and non-tariff measures to make trade easier and more structured within the group.
One key step, he said, is lowering tariffs among member states so that external tariff pressures would have minimal impact, given the strength of internal trade arrangements within the bloc.
“This will allow them to cooperate without fear of potential tariff threats or other non-tariff barriers from outside,” Boroujerdi added.
The remarks were made ahead of the upcoming D-8 Summit, which Indonesia will host in April. Leaders from Iran, Turkey, Malaysia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Nigeria, and Azerbaijan are expected to attend.
Amid shifting global dynamics, Indonesia’s chairmanship carries the theme “Navigating Global Shifts: Strengthening Equality, Solidarity, and Cooperation for Shared Prosperity,” promoting adaptation to global economic changes, inclusivity, and resilience.
Regarding Indonesia’s leadership, Ambassador Boroujerdi described the country as cooperative and committed to solidarity with fellow member states. He expressed confidence that Indonesia’s chairmanship would help strengthen trade and investment cooperation within the D-8 framework.
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Translator: Katriana
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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