September 27, 2016; New Delhi

1. In response to a question, the Official Spokesperson stated that India has conveyed to current SAARC Chair Nepal that increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in the region and growing interference in the internal affairs of Member States by one country have created an environment that is not conducive to the successful holding of the 19th SAARC Summit in Islamabad in November 2016. India remains steadfast in its commitment to regional cooperation, connectivity and contacts but believes that these can only go forward in an atmosphere free of terror.

2. In the prevailing circumstances, the Government of India is unable to participate in the proposed Summit in Islamabad.

3. We also understand that some other SAARC Member States have also conveyed their reservation about attending the Islamabad Summit in November 2016.

New Delhi
September 27, 2016