Ziaur Rahman’s role in the founding of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation was highlighted at the Antalya Forum

Speakers at a ministerial panel on Saturday at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum recalled the pivotal role of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in initiating the establishment of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation.

They underscored the continued importance of SAARC as a platform for regional cooperation and dialogue.

The panel featured Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Afghanistan’s Transport Minister Azizi, according to a message received here.

Speaking at the session, Dr Khalilur said that revitalising SAARC remains a key foreign policy priority for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The speakers agreed that South Asia holds vast potential for cooperation, stressing that sustained dialogue and diplomacy are essential to overcoming longstanding challenges and advancing regional integration.