Is SAARC on The Right Track?

 

Saarc movement is the conglomeration of eight nations in South Asian Sub-Continent. It was formed in the year 1985 on December 8 in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. The objective behind the formation was to imbibe all South Asian nat6ions under one banner. In the beginning there was seven nations included in the group. Later on Afghanistan was included as the eight and the last nation on April 2007. Since then the movement was moving on smoothly. Relations was moving on smoothly. In fact all member nations had the eagerness to involve into bilateral cooperation between each nation of the conglomerates.

So long around forty long years have elapsed since the formation of Saarc. Now we find that Saarc movement of the globe is badly losing its lustre. It might be due to the change in geopolitical situations of the Sub-Continent. The way global Superpowers are emerging dominant in South Asian Sub-Continent. It seems little bit of fissures among the conglomerates. But my point why this is so? To my mind the hypothetical reason lies very much with China. Apart from US and European Union, China is trying her level best to grab entire South Asian sub-Continent. That is why both India and Bangladesh should be fully alert in their own strides.

The experts on international relations of both nations are keeping their eyes wide open in this crucial geopolitical moments. India and Bangladesh are eager to work together jointly in this crucial moments. The issue pertains to belligerent attitude of Maldives, one of the important members of Saarc conglomerates.

Among the Saarc conglomerates, India and Bangladesh are both emerging as a vibrant economy. India is always on the point of maintaining cordiality with all Saarc nations. In the recent past Maldives was in a state of political and social spat. In order to bring an end to the spat, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi despatched Indian Army contingent to this small South Asian Island nation. The objective was very transparent from Indian side. Indian Prime Minister aimed to instil peaceful coexistence in that nation. But all of a sudden Maldives decided to tie up with China. This is very much upsetting from Indian point of view.

India’s relations with other South Asian nations, are not so sound. Sri Lanka and Pakistan are not in a good shape. The influence of China has badly trounced them. Apart from the above, other South Asian nations are somehow carrying on their mantle. Among all the eight Saarc nations, India and Bangladesh have to play pivotal roles with the objective to ensure peace not only in and around Sub-Continent. But also the group should ensure global peace and tranquillity.

The experts on Saarc despite opining confidence on Saarc unity. But from the back of the mind there is a trace of dubious mind in them. However Indian Prime Minister along with Bangladesh Prime Minister arte jointly involved in their untiring efforts to ensure peace and calmness. Despite our utterance about all negatives we should always be optimistic in our thoughts as regards ensuring peace and tranquillity throughout the Sub-Continent is concerned.

Plan of actions required in this regard are stated as such, expansion of bilateral trade and commerce among all Saarc nations, man to man contact among all member nations, academic and cultural relations, corporate relations will always pave the way towards ensuring the unity on the right track and finally visit of all vocal musicians to each nation will further strengthen Saarc unity and movement.

Summing up the above views, one point will always surmise our mind that despite the current sterile situations in and around the globe. It is dearly cherished that Saarc movement cannot be allowed to lose its pulse. Otherwise will be badly vitiated around the globe. As per the views of Rabindranath Tagore and Swami Vivekananda peace should be treated as human prerogative of the modern age. Through the modicum of peace, Saarc movement should be strengthened so that it remains on the right track.


Sujayendra Das is a columnist
based in Kolkata, India.