International Road Transport Union Appoints New Secretary General
The International Road Transport Union (IRU) has chosen Tunisian national Habib Turki to take the reins of its secretariat general. Members of the organization, gathered on May 29, 2026, in Geneva, validated his nomination to succeed Umberto de Pretto, who has been in the position for over a decade.
Who is Habib Turki?
With nearly 20 years of experience in international organizations, Habib Turki possesses in-depth knowledge of mobility and trade facilitation issues, according to the IRU. His history with the IRU dates back to the period 2015-2018, when he held the position of Regional Advisor for the Middle East. During this time, he contributed to strengthening the organization's presence in the region and accompanied the integration of several countries, including Oman, Palestine, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, into the TIR system, the world's primary road transit system.
After this initial experience, he joined the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) in 2019, where he was responsible for developing tourist services and representing the organization at the United Nations. His progression continued in 2024 with his appointment as Chief Development Officer, supervising growth and international expansion projects, particularly in China and several Asian markets.
Focus on Sustainable Transition of Road Transport
Reacting to his nomination, Habib Turki expressed his honor in rejoining the IRU and collaborating once again with its members worldwide. He highlighted the organization's significant role in developing international trade and promoting road safety, while emphasizing the challenges the sector currently faces. Among his priorities is accelerating a realistic and sustainable ecological transition of road transport.
Habib Turki will officially take up his duties as Secretary General on August 1, 2026.
