Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has commended the contributions of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) in pursuing the collective efforts to recover from the social and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. He made remarks at the congratulatory message to the SAARC Secretariat on the occasion of the 37th SAARC Charter Day.
In the message, Minister Shahid extended warm greetings and best wishes to the Secretary-General of SAARC, the SAARC Secretariat, and people of the SAARC region, on the happy occasion of SAARC Charter Day. The foreign minister expressed the importance to reflect on the successes and gains achieved by SAARC despite the multifarious challenges, as the 37th year of the founding of SAARC is celebrated. Noting South Asia is a region blessed with great potential, he expressed all member states must renew the commitment to work hand in hand, to reap the benefits of regional cooperation to enhance prosperity and quality of life of South Asian people.
Furthermore, Minister Shahid said it is important to recognise and commend the contributions of SAARC in bringing the member states together, in pursuing collective efforts to recover from the social and economic impacts of COVID-19. He expressed hope that the spirit of solidarity and commitment is and will continue to manifest in all areas of cooperation while every country continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic.
In conclusion, the foreign minister assured the full support of the Government of Maldives to foster regional cooperation, as enshrined in the SAARC Charter.