Islamabad [Pakistan], July 20 (ANI): Pakistan is planning to host the South Asian Federation (SAF) Games in early 2027 as part of its efforts to revitalize the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
The plan was announced by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Muhammad Ishaq Dar, during a farewell courtesy call by outgoing SAARC Secretary-General Ambassador Golam Sarwar of Bangladesh in Islamabad.
During the meeting, Dar commended Ambassador Sarwar for his leadership and contributions to strengthening regional cooperation in South Asia.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to the SAARC Charter, Dar emphasized that stronger regional cooperation is essential for socioeconomic development among member states, enhanced trade connectivity, and accelerated poverty reduction to improve the lives of South Asia’s nearly 2 billion people.
He also reiterated that Pakistan is prepared to make every effort to revitalize SAARC’s economic and functional agenda.
Ambassador Sarwar expressed his gratitude to the government and people of Pakistan for their support during his tenure and praised the country’s constructive role in advancing SAARC’s objectives.
The two leaders discussed the current state of regional cooperation and stressed the need for collective action to address shared challenges, including climate vulnerability, energy security, and cross-border connectivity.
They also exchanged views on the ongoing security situation in West Asia.
Dar extended his best wishes to Ambassador Sarwar for his future endeavors.
Ambassador Sarwar assumed office as the 15th Secretary-General of SAARC in October 2023 and is scheduled to complete his tenure in October 2026.
The South Asian Federation Games were established on Nov. 26, 1981, in New Delhi to promote friendship and goodwill among the people of the SAARC member nations.
The inaugural South Asian Federation Games were held on Sept. 17, 1984, at Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal. A total of 373 athletes participated, including 105 from Nepal, 98 from India, 53 from Bangladesh, 41 from Sri Lanka, 35 from Bhutan, 24 from the Maldives, and 16 from Pakistan.
Established in 1985, SAARC comprises Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The organization’s secretariat is based in Kathmandu, Nepal, and it aims to promote economic cooperation, regional integration, and development across South Asia. (ANI)
About The Author
