27.7.2008

SAARC leaders, when they meet in Colombo on August 2nd and 3rd, will take up several issues of regional interest including the combating of terrorism that has become a menace and major obstacle the development of the member states.

The delegates will also discuss poverty alleviation, climate change, the need for a common currency, disaster management and the setting up of a development fund and a food bank among the SAARC nations.

This eight-nation regional conference will take up the crucial issues pertaining to a common programme.

Regional leaders who have confirmed their participation with the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry include Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, Maldivan President Mohamed Abdul Gayoom, Nepalese Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala, Bangladeshi Chief Adviser to the Non Party Caretaker Government, Dr Fakkurdin Ahmed and Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai.

The European Union, Foreign Minister of Iran Manouchehr Mottaki, Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs at the US State Department Richard Boucher, Mauritius, South Korea and Japan will act as the observers at his year’s summit.
On the sidelines of the SAARC Summit, several cultural events including dances and film festivals, youth camps, trade exhibitions, children’s art competitions and a gem and jewellery exhibition have been arranged.