What is SAARC?
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an economic and political organization of eight countries in Southern Asia. SAARC was established when its Charter was formally adopted on December 8, 1985 by the Heads of State or Government of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. In April 2007, at the Association's 14th summit, Afghanistan became its eighth member.

In terms of population, its sphere of influence is the largest of any regional organization: almost 1.5 billion people, the combined population of its member states. SAARC provides a platform for the peoples of South Asia to work together in a spirit of friendship, trust and understanding. It aims to accelerate the process of economic and social development in Member States.

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