ports

Turki Named New IRU Leader as Global Road Transport Union Transitions Leadership

Habib Turki has been elected secretary general of the International Road Transport Union, effective August 1, replacing Umberto de Pretto. The appointment was confirmed at the IRU's annual general meeting in Geneva. Turki joins the organization from the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, where he served as chief development officer since 2024. In that role, he negotiated partnerships and agreements with international organisations and governments while supporting FIA's expansion in China and across Asia. He also developed the FIA's Tourism Services Department and led its advocacy at the UN. Previously, Turki worked as the IRU's regional adviser for the Middle East from 2015 to 2018. During this period, he expanded the union's regional footprint and advocated for TIR system accession among Oman, Palestine, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Turki emphasized his commitment to advancing road safety, sustainable decarbonization efforts, and building on the IRU's historical role in facilitating international trade.