In this region, there is a tendency to focus on appearances while neglecting the underlying issues. The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) is a prime example of this phenomenon. Established four decades ago, Saarc has been stagnant since 2014 after the last summit in Kathmandu, while the rest of the world moves towards a more complex multipolar system.
The statistics reveal a concerning reality of a collective regional setback. Unlike blocs such as ASEAN, which have successfully integrated their economies to form a robust intra-regional trade network accounting for 25 percent of total trade, South Asia lags behind. Intra-regional trade in South Asia is a mere five percent, with countries opting for costly global shipping routes instead of utilizing logical regional corridors.
At the heart of this standstill is a significant issue that mere diplomatic efforts cannot resolve. India’s dominance in the region is undeniable due to its sheer size and strategic importance. However, India’s failure to engage its neighbors effectively through the “Neighbourhood First Policy” has hindered regional progress.
The longstanding India-Pakistan rivalry, stemming from the partition in 1947, continues to impede the aspirations of millions of people in the region. Allowing this bilateral conflict to dictate regional dynamics is detrimental. India must understand that building trust and fostering equitable partnerships, rather than asserting dominance, is crucial for regional prosperity.
On the other hand, China has emerged as a key player in the region, sharing borders with five Saarc countries. Through initiatives like the China Pakistan Economic Corridor, China has significantly contributed to infrastructure development in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives. Ignoring China’s role in South Asian cooperation would be ignoring a significant geopolitical reality.
Integrating China into a revamped regional bloc, such as SAC+ or ASIA CORE, could help mitigate the dominance of any single state. While there are concerns about debt dependency, the benefits of enhanced connectivity and bargaining power through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative cannot be overlooked.
Furthermore, involving countries like the United States, Japan, and Australia as “plus partners” could help alleviate regional tensions and provide access to technology and markets essential for economic growth.
Proposed names like SACNet or BIPSA suggest flexible and modular cooperation, focusing on issue-based working groups to bypass political deadlocks. Utilizing a system of “flexible regionalism” would allow for cooperation on specific projects, even in the absence of broader agreements.
The failure of regional blocs has tangible human costs, evident in the plight of the Rohingya and the region’s vulnerability to global crises. It is imperative to transform shared vulnerabilities into collective strengths to address the common concerns of the people in South Asia.
Bangladesh holds a significant moral authority in fostering regional cooperation. As a bridge for peace and prosperity, Bangladesh should lead with inclusivity and vision, advocating for forums that are adaptable and not constrained by rigid structures.
While Saarc remains dormant, the urgent need for cooperation demands attention. South Asia must choose between remaining fragmented and vulnerable to external interests or coming together to form a multipolar bloc that commands respect and promotes shared prosperity.
