Lahore, The Punjab University Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), in collaboration with Dr. Jahangir Badar Institute of Vision and Leadership, organized a seminar to observe ‘SAARC Charter Day’. The event featured distinguished guests and emphasized the importance of regional cooperation and dialogue within the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
According to University of The Punjab, the event was graced by notable personalities including the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, Admiral (r) Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunartatne, Former High Commissioner of Pakistan to India Shahid Malik, Honorary Council General of Sri Lanka Yasin Joeya, and CEO of Dr. Jahangir Badar Institute of Vision and Leadership, Zulfikar Ali Badar. CSAS Director Dr. Naheed S. Goraya and Director Centre for Civility and Integrity Development Dr. Shabbir Ahmad Khan were also present, along with faculty members and students.
Admiral (r) Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunartatne, in his address, expressed his fondness for Pakistan, particularly Lahore, and called for increased people-to-people contact to strengthen bilateral ties between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. He concluded with an optimistic vision for revitalizing SAARC as an effective platform for addressing regional issues. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya highlighted SAARC’s potential in developing South Asia economically but emphasized the need to understand the challenges first. She noted that all SAARC member countries are equal, regardless of size or population, and stressed the importance of resilience and willingness to use SAARC effectively through negotiation and collaboration.
Zulfikar Ali Badar discussed the importance of developing leadership skills through the platform of the Dr. Jahangir Badar Institute of Vision and Leadership. Shahid Malik, Former High Commissioner of Pakistan to India, emphasized the need for regular dialogue and meetings between India and Pakistan and other South Asian countries to overcome issues that have hindered SAARC since its inception. He suggested dialogue as an effective means to resolve these issues.
The seminar concluded with Dr. Shabbir Ahmad Khan thanking the guests and appreciating the efforts made to commemorate ‘SAARC Charter Day’. Souvenirs were presented to the distinguished guests as a token of gratitude.
The event underscores the ongoing efforts and commitment of regional leaders and institutions like Punjab University to foster dialogue and cooperation in South Asia, emphasizing the significance of SAARC in regional development and stability.