The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) marked its 30th Charter Day at the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu, Nepal on 8 December 2014. SAARC Secretary General Arjun Bahadur Thapa hosted a reception attended by Nepali Vice President Paramananda Jha as chief guest along with dignitaries, high-ranking government officials, and representatives of civil society, business community, and media. Secretary General Thapa lauded the success of the recently concluded 18th SAARC Summit.

Heads of State and ministers of Foreign Affairs of SAARC member countries issued special messages in commemoration of Charter Day. Nepal Prime Minister issued a message confirming the country’s adherence to the objectives of the SAARC Charter and desire to work together with other member states to achieve peace, prosperity, and stability in the region. Various commemorative events were organized by SAARC Regional Centers, Specialized Bodies of SAARC, and SAARC Apex, among others.

SAARC was established on 8 December 1985, with adoption of its Charter by Governments of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Afghanistan joined SAARC as the 8th member in April 2007.

Related Links:

30th SAARC Charter’s Day Marked
30th Year of SAARC Charter Celebrated