SAARC Headquarters: Kathmandu, Nepal

The Secretariat of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Key Details

• Established: 1987 (SAARC founded 1985)
• Location: Tridevi Marg, Kathmandu
• Function: Coordinates implementation of SAARC decisions, monitors programs, serves as liaison between member states
• Headed by: Secretary-General (rotates among member states, 3-year term)

Member States (8)

1. Afghanistan
2. Bangladesh
3. Bhutan
4. India
5. Maldives
6. Nepal
7. Pakistan
8. Sri Lanka

Context

SAARC promotes regional cooperation in agriculture, health, education, culture, transport, and terrorism prevention. Summits are hosted by member states rotationally; the Secretariat provides continuity between summits. Political tensions (especially India-Pakistan) have periodically hampered SAARC's effectiveness.