President Muizzu and SAARC Chief Discuss Strengthening Regional Integration in Farewell Meeting

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and outgoing SAARC Secretary-General Md. Golam Sarwar met at the President's Office to discuss the future of regional cooperation and the evolving role of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). During the farewell call, the two leaders reviewed key initiatives aimed at deepening regional integration and fostering collective progress among member states. The discussions focused on how SAARC can more effectively address shared challenges and advance the socio-economic interests of the South Asian region. President Muizzu reaffirmed the Maldives' steadfast commitment to the organization, emphasizing its critical importance in both regional and international affairs. He commended Secretary-General Sarwar for his leadership and thanked him for the support extended to the Maldives throughout his tenure. In response, Sarwar expressed his gratitude for the cooperation received from the Maldivian government. He highlighted the Maldives' significance as a founding member of the organization, noting that its active participation remains vital to the collective success of the bloc. Secretary-General Sarwar also specifically thanked President Muizzu for his ongoing efforts to revitalize SAARC, suggesting a renewed momentum for the organization's diplomatic and developmental goals. The meeting concluded with President Muizzu extending his best wishes to Sarwar for his future endeavors and pledging to continue promoting close collaboration among member states to ensure regional stability. Established on December 8, 1985, with the signing of the SAARC Charter in Dhaka, Bangladesh, the organization serves as the primary vehicle for regional cooperation in South Asia. As a founding member, the Maldives continues to advocate for a collaborative approach to regional security and economic growth.