On the auspicious occasion of the SAARC Charter Day, on behalf of the Government and the People of Bangladesh and as the Chair of SAARC, I take great pleasure in extending our warm felicitations to the peoples and Governments of SAARC Member States.
Twenty one years ago, it was on this day that the heads of State and Government of South Asia signed the Charter of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation and the Dhaka Declaration to accelerate the process of economic and social development in South Asia through optimum utilization of human and material resources in the SAARC countries. The leaders were conscious that peace, stability and security were essential pre-requisites for realizing these cherished objectives.
The SAARC Charter Day is a manifestation of our common aspiration to achieve peace, progress, friendship and prosperity in the South Asian region. The Charter provides a framework for cooperation for achieving these objectives.
Bangladesh believes, poverty alleviation should continue to be the prime focus of SAARC. Since its inception, SAARC has worked for enhancement of cooperation in poverty alleviation, agricultural and rural development, science and technology, trade and investment, connectivity, human resources development, natural disaster reduction has been receiving increasing attention. We believe, this process should be further strengthened and expanded, taking into account the need to ensure equitable benefits to the member states.
Bangladesh feels privileged and honoured to have successfully hosted the Thirteenth SAARC Summit in Dhaka last November. The Dhaka Declaration is a reflection of our common resolve to work for the socio-economic upliftment of the Region. Whatever success we have achieved, should be carried forward.
On this occasion, let us take a renewed pledge to join our hands, together and make concerted efforts to improve the quality of life of the People’s of the Region.