Kathmandu: The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) celebrated the 40th anniversary of the adoption of the SAARC Charter on December 8, reaffirming its founding vision of regional unity, peace, and shared prosperity. The Charter, endorsed by the Heads of State or Government of South Asia at the First SAARC Summit in Dhaka on 8 December 1985, laid the foundation for a cooperative regional organization dedicated to improving the lives of nearly two billion people.
To mark this milestone, the Heads of State/Government and Foreign Ministers of all SAARC Member States issued special commemorative messages. In their statements, they underlined the enduring relevance of SAARC as a collective platform to deepen mutual understanding, enhance collaboration, and strengthen solidarity across South Asia. The leaders emphasized the need for intensified efforts to unlock economic potential, ensure equitable development, and address shared regional challenges shaped by common history, culture, and destiny.
Extending warm felicitations to the peoples and governments of the Member States, the leaders reiterated their commitment to the principles and objectives enshrined in the Charter. They also acknowledged the urgency of revitalizing the SAARC process through meaningful cooperation and sustained political will.
SAARC Secretary General Md. Golam Sarwar also released a message on the occasion, expressing gratitude to Member States, Observer States, Development Partners, and regional and international organizations for their longstanding support. Reflecting on SAARC’s four-decade journey—from institutional strengthening to the implementation of regional programs across multiple sectors—he described Charter Day as a moment to celebrate achievements and renew commitments to regional integration. SAARC, despite facing political and economic challenges in recent years, continues to stand as a symbol of South Asia’s collective aspirations for peace, progress, and unity.
