Maldives President Calls for SARC Revitalization Through Dialogue

Male. Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has called on member states to end differences through dialogue and start a new phase of cooperation to revitalize the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). He also stated that Maldives is ready to play the role of mediator if necessary for regional peace, stability, and cooperation.

Addressing a special ceremony organized on the occasion of Maldives' 61st Independence Day, President Muizzu mentioned that dialogue is the only effective means to end the long-standing stalemate within SAARC. He urged member states to prioritize regional interests and return to the negotiating table.

43 countries and 113 diplomats from international organizations participated in the ceremony. In his address, President Muizzu provided information about Maldives' foreign policy, urging the international community to resolve all kinds of disputes through peaceful dialogue.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh also pointed out the need to revive SAARC earlier this month. Bangladesh's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obayed had stated that to make the organization effective, implementation capacity, financial resources, special mechanisms, and regular monitoring systems need to be strengthened.

She also informed that discussions are underway regarding the possibility of convening a meeting of senior officials and a special session of the SAARC Council of Ministers after consulting with member states.

SAARC, which includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka as members, is a regional organization established with the aim of promoting economic cooperation, regional integration, and development in South Asia. However, in recent years, its activities have become ineffective due to tensions between India and Pakistan and disputes related to cross-border terrorism.