The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) proudly marks its 40th Charter Day on December 8, 2024. Established at the First SAARC Summit in Dhaka on December 8, 1985, with the adoption of the SAARC Charter, this day has been celebrated annually ever since to honor the vision of regional unity and collaboration.

On this significant occasion, the Heads of State/Government of SAARC Member States have issued special messages reflecting their shared commitment to regional harmony and development. Distinguished leaders, including the Hon’ble President of Bangladesh, Mr. Mohammed Shahabuddin; Hon’ble Chief Advisor of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, Dr. Muhammad Yunus; Hon’ble Prime Minister of Bhutan, Mr. Tshering Tobgay; Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi; Hon’ble President of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu; Hon’ble Prime Minister of Nepal, Mr. K.P. Sharma Oli; Hon’ble Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif; Hon’ble President of Sri Lanka, Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake; and Hon’ble Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, extended their heartfelt messages. Foreign Ministers from Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka also contributed dedications to the occasion.

In their addresses, the leaders emphasized the pivotal role of SAARC as a platform for fostering regional cooperation, solidarity, and mutual understanding among its Member States. They reiterated their commitment to SAARC’s mission of promoting peace, prosperity, and integration in South Asia, highlighting the region’s shared aspirations and challenges. They acknowledged South Asia’s vast potential, enriched by its youthful population, natural and cultural wealth, and the need to address shared issues such as poverty, underdevelopment, and environmental concerns.

The messages collectively called for renewed collective efforts and initiatives to achieve regional growth and prosperity. The leaders reaffirmed their support for the SAARC process, pledging to work together in achieving the objectives set forth in the Charter and realizing the vision of a united and thriving South Asia.