Press Release

The Royal Government of Bhutan celebrated the establishment of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) on Friday 7 December 2018, in Tashichhodzong and observed the thirty-fourth anniversary of the signing of the SAARC Charter.

A lighting of a thousand butter lamps was organized at the Kuenray of Tashichhodzong to celebrate the occasion. Hon’ble Foreign Minister Lyonpo Dr. Tandi Dorji graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Senior officials of the Royal Government along with members of the international community attended the event.

The SAARC Charter signed on 8 December 1985 is of historic significance to our region. Recognizing our shared history and common destiny, the Charter enshrined the desire and determination of our counties to foster mutual understanding, friendship and meaningful cooperation for peace and prosperity.

The objective of SAARC is to accelerate the process of social, economic and cultural development in the region. The current areas of cooperation among the Member States encompasses poverty alleviation, trade, energy, finance, agriculture, education, connectivity, social development, climate change, science and technology, countering terrorism and transnational crime, illicit use of drugs, among several others.

As a founding member, Bhutan attaches high importance to the purpose and principles of the SAARC Charter. Bhutan will continue to work with the Member States to make SAARC a dynamic, responsive and effective regional organization that contributes to realizing the shared dreams and aspirations of our peoples.