Maldives Calls for SAARC Revival, Offers to Help End Regional Deadlock

Male, July 27:

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has renewed his call for reviving the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), urging member nations to overcome differences through dialogue and restore regional cooperation.

Speaking during the Maldives’ 61st Independence Day celebrations, Muizzu said South Asia would benefit from stronger collaboration and called on SAARC countries to resume discussions aimed at resolving the long-standing stalemate within the regional bloc.

The Maldivian President said the Maldives is prepared to play a constructive role in helping member nations restart dialogue and bridge existing differences. He stressed that peaceful engagement remains the most effective way to promote stability, development and cooperation across the region.

Addressing diplomats and representatives from several countries and international organisations, Muizzu also highligh

SAARC revival

ted his government’s foreign policy priorities, emphasising diplomacy and peaceful resolution of international disputes.

His remarks come amid renewed discussions on the future of SAARC. Earlier this month, Bangladesh also expressed support for revitalising the regional organisation and proposed measures to strengthen its institutional framework, improve implementation mechanisms and enhance cooperation among member states.

Bangladesh has also indicated that consultations are underway with SAARC members regarding the possibility of convening a meeting of senior officials and exploring a special session of the Council of Ministers to revive the regional platform.

SAARC comprises Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Established to promote regional cooperation and economic development, the organisation has remained largely inactive in recent years due to prolonged political differences and security concerns among member countries.