The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore in collaboration with the Forum of Diplomats, an initiative of Dr. Jehangir Bader Institute of Vision and Leadership (JBIVL) organized a special program/ One Day Seminar to commemorate SAARC Charter Day, focusing on the relevance of regional cooperation and the evolving challenges faced by South Asia in the 21st century. The Honorable Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of the Punjab, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The program was presided by the Vice Chancellor, University of the Punjab, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Shah. The event brought together distinguished policymakers, diplomats, academics, and experts to reflect on the 40 years of the SAARC and to discuss pathways for revitalizing regional integration amid contemporary political, economic, and security challenges.

In the opening remarks, Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Bader, Founder of JBIVL said that JBVIL organizes this event in commemoration of SAARC Charter Day in collaboration with the CSAS every year. Prof. Dr. Naheed S. Goraya, Director Centre for South Asian Studies in her welcome address highlighted the significance of SAARC as a platform for promoting regional cooperation, peace and shared prosperity in South Asia. Prof. Goraya, in her address noted that South Asia faces complex challenges in the 21st century, including geo-political tensions, climate change, economic disparities, public health crisis, pandemics, digital transformation and cyber governance, energy security and sustainable development, migration, inequality, and human security. She emphasized that academic institutions have a crucial role in encouraging dialogue, research and people-to-people engagement to strengthen regional understanding. Dr. Goraya expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, Malik Muhammad Khan, the Honorable Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, the Vice Chancellor, and the distinguished Guest Speakers for the participation and valuable insights. She reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to promoting informed discourse on South Asian affairs.

The Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan in his address emphasized the importance of policymakers’ cooperation, people-to-people connectivity, and renewed political will for strengthening SAARC. In the keynote address, the Speaker underscored that regional collaboration remains essential for addressing shared challenges such as climate change, poverty, public health, and economic development. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Shah, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab, in the Presidential address, highlighted the role of academic institutions and research centers in promoting regional dialogue, mutual understanding, and evidence-based policymaking in South Asia. The Vice Chancellor appreciated and commended the Director CSAS for successfully organizing the important event at 40th year of SAARC’s Charter and for fostering the informed dialogue on regional issues. Mr. Shahid Malik, former Ambassador of Pakistan to India delivered an insightful address on the historical evolution of SAARC, highlighting the institutional constraints. He stressed the need for pragmatic engagement, confidence-building measures, and functional cooperation in areas of common interest. He emphasized that the Indian role as a stumbling block has hampered SAARC to progress. Mr.Yasin Joyia, the Honorary Consul General for Srilanka focused on economic cooperation, regional trade, and connectivity, advocating for stronger private-sector engagement to unlock South Asia’s vast economic potential.

The program concluded with a consensus that while SAARC faces significant challenges in the current geopolitical environment, its core vision remains relevant. Participants reaffirmed the importance of dialogue, inclusivity, and cooperation to ensure peace, stability, and sustainable development in South Asia.