ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation as the country marked the 40th anniversary of SAARC Charter Day.
In his message, President Zardari said Pakistan is ready to work with all willing South Asian states to promote trade, transit, energy linkages and people-to-people contacts for the collective benefit of the region. He highlighted Pakistan’s strategic geographical position as a bridge between South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East, and stressed the need for a cooperative, inclusive and forward-looking regional order.
“Pakistan remains committed to a cooperative, inclusive and forward-looking regional order. The challenges facing our region are shared, and so must be the solutions,” the president said, urging South Asian nations to move forward with clarity, sincerity and practical cooperation to build a peaceful and prosperous future.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his separate message, said Pakistan remains firmly committed to the principles and objectives of the SAARC Charter. He emphasised that genuine cooperation based on sovereign equality, mutual respect and constructive engagement is essential to unlock South Asia’s vast potential.
The prime minister underscored the importance of enhancing economic, digital and people-to-people connectivity across South Asia, calling for stronger linkages to promote trade, investment, innovation and cultural exchange.
Highlighting regional challenges, including poverty, climate-induced natural disasters, food and energy insecurity and public health issues, PM Shehbaz said these problems transcend borders and require collective responses built on mutual trust and goodwill.
“It is only by acting together that we can build a resilient and inclusive future for our peoples,” he said.
Pakistan’s leadership reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with regional partners to strengthen peace, stability and prosperity across South Asia.
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