Flags of Member Nations

The South Asian Regional Cooperation (SARC), initiated in 1980, has rapidly evolved into a significant cooperative effort among the seven South Asian countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Here are the key points regarding SARC and its development:

• Initiation and Objectives: SARC was proposed by President Zia-ur-Rahman of Bangladesh in 1980, aiming to foster regional cooperation among South Asian nations. The member countries recognized their shared history, geographical proximity, and determination to progress together, forming a solid basis for collaboration.
• Founding Principles: The cooperation under SARC is guided by principles of sovereign equality, territorial integrity, political independence, non-interference in internal affairs, and mutual benefit. These principles ensure that cooperation is based on respect and mutual understanding among member states.
• Early Meetings and Declarations: The first Foreign Ministers meeting in New Delhi in August 1983 marked the formal launch of SARC. A declaration was adopted outlining the principles and objectives of cooperation. An Integrated Programme of Action was also adopted, addressing nine key areas such as Postal Services, Rural Development, Science and Technology, Agriculture, Health, Meteorology, Sports, Arts and Culture, Telecommunications, and Transport.
• Subsequent Meetings: Following the initial meeting, subsequent Foreign Ministers meetings were held in Male (1984) and Thimpu (1985), reaffirming political commitment and outlining institutional frameworks for cooperation.
• First SARC Summit: The first summit of SARC was scheduled to take place in Dhaka on 7-8 December 1985. This summit aimed to consolidate solidarity among member states and enhance institutional mechanisms for effective regional cooperation.
• Progress and Expansion: Despite its relatively short history, SARC had already made significant strides, generating goodwill through various cooperative activities. The summit in Dhaka represented a crucial stage in refining and expanding SARC’s activities, aiming for deeper integration and mutual benefit among member nations.
• Commemorative Stamps: In recognition of the historic first summit in Dhaka, the Department of Posts issued a special set of two postage stamps, celebrating the occasion and highlighting the commitment of South Asian nations to regional cooperation and solidarity.

These stamps not only commemorate the landmark event but also symbolize the shared aspirations and collaborative spirit driving South Asian regional integration through SARC.