Dhaka: The 17th Meeting of the Governing Board (GB) of the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) commenced today in the capital, convening senior policymakers, agricultural scientists, and representatives from SAARC member states to bolster regional cooperation in agricultural research and development.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the two-day meeting, held at a city hotel, includes participation from Dr. Nazmun Nahar Karim, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC); Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD and SDF) from the SAARC Secretariat, Kathmandu, representing Ambassador Md Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of SAARC; Abdul Motaleb Sarker, former Secretary (SAARC and BIMSTEC), Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Dr. Md Harunur Rashid, Director of the SAARC Agriculture Centre.
High Commissioners from Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Pakistan, along with embassy representatives from India and Nepal, and senior officials from the National Agricultural Research System (NARS) and other international agricultural organizations, were also present, as per a press release.
In his welcome address, Dr. Md Harunur Rashid emphasized SAC's ongoing dedication to promoting sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing food security, and facilitating regional knowledge exchange. He stated that SAC plays a crucial role in advancing agricultural innovation and resilience amid climate change and emerging challenges.
The inaugural session also included a virtual address by Ali Amir, Chairperson of the 16th Governing Board and Director at the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Maldives. He stressed the significance of regional solidarity in tackling shared agricultural challenges and steering South Asia toward a more food-secure future. Abdul Motaleb Sarker echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of sharing expertise and collaborative action for South Asia's agricultural future.
Tanvir Ahmad Torophder from the SAARC Secretariat highlighted the critical role of agriculture in the region's economy, noting SAC's vital role in the context of climate change. He affirmed the Secretariat's commitment to supporting policies that enhance productivity, innovation, and cross-border collaboration.
During the technical session, the Chairpersonship of the Governing Board was formally transferred from the outgoing Chair, the Maldives, to Nepal. Sabnam Shivakoti, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Nepal, assumed the role of Chair and presided over the meeting.
Representatives from Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka attended the meeting in person, while delegates from India, Bhutan, the Maldives, and Pakistan participated virtually. The 17th Governing Board Meeting serves as a crucial platform for reviewing progress, sharing best practices, and adopting strategies to advance sustainable agricultural development across South Asia.