17th Meeting of the Governing Board (GB) of the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) began in the capital today. Photo: SAC

DHAKA, Oct 13, 2025 (BSS) – The 17th Meeting of the Governing Board (GB) of the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) began in the capital today, bringing together senior policymakers, agricultural scientists and representatives from SAARC member states to strengthen regional cooperation in agricultural research and development.

The two-day meeting, being held at a city hotel, is attended by Dr Nazmun Nahar Karim, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC); Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD & SDF) from the SAARC Secretariat, Kathmandu, representing H E Ambassador Md Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of SAARC; Abdul Motaleb Sarker, former Secretary (SAARC & BIMSTEC), Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Dr Md Harunur Rashid, Director of the SAARC Agriculture Centre.

High Commissioners of Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Pakistan; embassy representatives from India and Nepal; and senior officials from the National Agricultural Research System (NARS) and other international agricultural organizations were also present, said a press release here. 

In his welcome address, Dr Md Harunur Rashid highlighted SAC’s continued commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing food security and facilitating regional knowledge exchange. 

“SAC plays a pivotal role in advancing agricultural innovation and resilience in the face of climate change and emerging challenges,” he said.

The inaugural session also featured a virtual address by Ali Amir, Chairperson of the 16th Governing Board and Director at the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Maldives. He emphasized the importance of regional solidarity in addressing shared agricultural challenges and steering South Asia toward a more food-secure future.

“It is truly inspiring to see SAC’s progress in strengthening regional ties through research and knowledge exchange,” said Abdul Motaleb Sarker, former Secretary (SAARC & BIMSTEC). “South Asia’s agricultural future depends on our willingness to share expertise and act together.”

Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD & SDF), SAARC Secretariat, underscored the importance of agriculture in the region’s economy. “In the context of climate change, SAC’s role is vital. The Secretariat remains committed to supporting policies that enhance productivity, innovation and cross-border collaboration,” he said.

During the technical session, the Chairpersonship of the Governing Board was formally transferred from the outgoing Chair, 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 physically, while delegates from India, Bhutan, Maldives and Pakistan joined virtually.

The 17th Governing Board Meeting serves as a key platform for reviewing progress, sharing best practices and adopting strategies to advance sustainable agricultural development across South Asia.