In the panel, esteemed figures in the financial sector were convened to tackle the substantial $4 trillion annual investment gap hindering the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) worldwide. The discussion placed a spotlight on Faith-based finance, notably Islamic Finance, as an innovative and alternative financial tool capable of fostering the impact economy and fully internalising sustainable finance. Moderated by Ms. Şafak Müderrisgil, Chair of Executive Board of the Impact Investing Advisory Board in Turkiye (EYDK), the panel featured key speakers such as Mr. Mohammed Dawood (HSBC), Mrs. Seçil Kızılkaya Yıldız (Development and Investment Bank of Türkiye), Mrs. Fatma Çınar (Participation Banks Association of Türkiye), and Mr. Ali Kemal Küçükcan (Türkiye Emlak Katılım Bankası).

The discussions delved into practical steps, initiatives, and regulatory functions aimed at aligning Islamic finance with SDGs. The focus was on exploring the potential of zakat and sukuk in social and economic reconstruction as well as fostering convergence with principles of impact investing. Panel topics included  exploration of successful green sukuk projects, an assessment  of the facilitator role of the Participation Banks Association, and an analysis of the regulatory landscape’s impact on fostering sustainable finance in Türkiye. This collaborative endeavour aims to amplify the industry’s commitment to sustainable development and position Islamic finance resources as pivotal contributors in transitioning to a low-carbon economy, with potential implications discussed at future COP28 meetings.