President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to strengthening the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and advancing closer cooperation among its member states, during a farewell call by SAARC Secretary-General His Excellency Md. Golam Sarwar at the President’s Office this morning.
During the meeting, President Muizzu expressed his sincere appreciation to the Secretary-General for his dedicated service, leadership and continued support throughout his tenure. The President highlighted the important role SAARC continues to play in promoting regional cooperation while contributing to broader engagement at the international level.
President Muizzu reiterated the Government of Maldives’ strong commitment to supporting efforts aimed at strengthening and revitalising SAARC, recognising the organisation as an important platform for addressing shared regional priorities and advancing collective development. He also commended Secretary-General Sarwar for his contribution towards promoting cooperation among the association’s member states during his tenure.
Secretary-General Sarwar, in turn, expressed his sincere appreciation for the steadfast cooperation and support extended by the Government of Maldives. He highlighted the significant position of the Maldives within SAARC as one of its founding members and thanked President Muizzu for his efforts towards revitalising the organisation and strengthening regional engagement.
The discussions also reflected on key SAARC initiatives and opportunities to further deepen regional integration. President Muizzu and the Secretary-General exchanged views on strengthening cooperation among South Asian nations and advancing collective progress through constructive engagement, stronger institutional collaboration and mutually beneficial regional initiatives.
The Maldives has consistently placed importance on regional cooperation, particularly in areas where South Asian nations share common development priorities and challenges. As a geographically distinct small island state within the region, the Maldives’ active participation in SAARC provides an important platform for contributing perspectives on sustainable development, economic cooperation, connectivity, social advancement and other areas of mutual interest.
The meeting further underscored the Government’s commitment to maintaining constructive relations with fellow SAARC member states and supporting efforts that enhance regional stability, development and prosperity. Strengthening cooperation through SAARC also provides opportunities for member countries to coordinate more effectively on shared priorities and pursue initiatives that deliver practical benefits to the peoples of South Asia.
Concluding the meeting, President Muizzu extended his best wishes to Secretary-General Sarwar for his future endeavours and expressed his eagerness to continue advancing close cooperation among SAARC member states.
The Maldives is a founding member of SAARC, which was formally established following the signing of the SAARC Charter in Dhaka on 8 December 1985. Since its establishment, the organisation has served as the principal regional platform for cooperation among South Asian countries, with the Maldives continuing to support greater regional engagement and collective advancement.
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