The declaration also talked about SAFMA’s four-point vision, which included South Asian partnership on energy cooperation, water management and conservation strategies. The declaration also spoke of increased investment in physical and social infrastructure sectors, restructuring growth and resource allocation in poverty alleviation projects and an unhindered, efficient connectivity and mobility across borders through highways, motorways, railways and air.

It strongly recommended for lifting of visa restrictions for free access and greater interaction among policy makers. “Visa granted by any of the SAARC countries should be made valid for all other countries of the region. The prevailing barriers to cross border movements make no commercial sense,” Alam added.

The SAARC declaration laid stress on setting-up of a South Asian Energy Grid to revolve cooperation between the member nations facing shortage of power. Strengthening people to people contact in the region and promoting free and an uninterrupted flow of information was also proposed. Other key issues that figure in the final declaration include human security, gender equality, environment protection, effect of global warming and South Asian human rights code.