Saturday, November 12 2005 20:19 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Dhaka: The first SAARC Award 2004, set up last year to honour those who play a role to strengthen the regional body, was today (Nov 12, 2005) given posthumously to former Bangladesh President Zia-ur Rahman with leaders of the seven member countries paying rich tributes to the late leader.

Rehman's eldest son Tariq Rahman received the award from Pakistan Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, the outgoing Chairman of the SAARC. Rahman, husband of Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, had played a key role in formation of the SAARC in 1985 and conferment of the award coincides with the 20th anniversary of the organisation.

The award was given away at the inauguration of the 13th SAARC Summit, attended by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and leaders of six other countries of South Asia.

Showering praise on Rahman, Aziz said the late Bangladesh leader had an inspiring vision and had initiated the idea of SAARC.

"Rahman had emphasised that regional cooperation was essential for peace and progress of South Asia," the Pakistan Prime Minister said, adding, "We must transform this vision into a reality."

Singh said Rahman's vision had helped move forward the idea of SAARC and it was only appropriate that his memory was honoured at this Summit with the first SAARC award.

Nepal King Gyanendra said Rahman had an outstanding contribution to SAARC despite an inhospitable international climate that prevailed in those formative years.

Sri Lanka President Chandrika Kumaratunga, Bhutan Prime Minister Sangay Ngedup and Maldives President Muamoon Abdul Gayoom also paid rich tributes to Rahman.