The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation

On 15th May, 2024, Secretary General of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), embarked on a five-day visit to India, marking his first official visit to a SAARC member state since assuming office in July 2023.

Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation within SAARC, reaffirming India's commitment to regional growth and prosperity through SAARC initiatives.
India emphasized the significance of SAARC as a platform for fostering closer ties among South Asian nations, highlighting its efforts to promote regional cooperation.
SAARC, comprising eight member states including India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, aims to promote regional cooperation and development.
However, SAARC's effectiveness has been hindered since 2016, with biennial summits suspended after the 2014 Kathmandu Summit.
The 2016 SAARC Summit in Islamabad was cancelled following India's withdrawal due to security concerns after the Uri terrorist attack, leading to other member states' decision not to participate.