ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Tuesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) during a meeting with SAARC Secretary General Md. Golam Sarwar at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to the Foreign Office, Dar appreciated the secretary general’s efforts to promote regional cooperation and emphasised the importance of a revitalised SAARC operating in accordance with the principles of its Charter.

He said an active regional organisation was essential for advancing connectivity, sustainable development and improving the collective well-being of the people of South Asia.

The deputy prime minister said South Asia’s demographic and economic potential remained one of the region’s greatest strengths and underscored the need to harness these opportunities through enhanced regional cooperation.

Dar reiterated that Pakistan remained firmly committed to the SAARC process and supported all efforts aimed at strengthening collaboration among member states.

SAARC Secretary General Md. Golam Sarwar thanked Pakistan for its consistent support for the organisation and its institutions, while acknowledging the country’s constructive role in promoting regional and global peace.

Dar also wished the secretary general success as he approached the completion of his tenure and conveyed his best wishes for his future endeavours.