Islamabad: The Eighteenth Governing Board meeting of the SAARC Energy Centre (SEC) took place from September 25 to 26 in Islamabad, Pakistan. Conducted in a hybrid format, the meeting saw participation from governing board members, representatives from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and officials from the SAARC Secretariat.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting marked the transition of the chairpersonship from Bangladesh to Bhutan. Sonam Tshering, Principal Engineer, Department of Energy, Ministry of Natural Resources, Royal Government of Bhutan, assumed the role of chair and presided over the discussions. Waseem Shahzad, Director ETS, SAARC Secretariat, addressed the meeting on behalf of the Secretary General of SAARC, emphasizing the need for the governing board’s empowerment and guidance to achieve the centre’s mission.
Sonam Tshering, in his address, reaffirmed the SAARC Energy Centre’s mandate and sought the cooperation of member states to navigate the process effectively. Abdul Rasheed Jokhio, Director of the SEC, presented the 2026 budget, briefed the meeting on the 2025 programme activities, and outlined key challenges. He requested the board’s guidance and endorsement for the proposed activities for 2026.
The meeting reviewed the centre’s past year programme activities, audited account reports, and the proposed budget for 2026. The governing board provided comprehensive recommendations on the centre’s activities, budget, and other operational matters, which will be considered at the next programming committee meeting. These recommendations aim to enhance the centre’s strategic initiatives and ensure optimal programme implementation efficacy over the next year.