Despite considerable geographical contiguity. SAARC has remained in a condition of jammed traffic. Discuss what SAARC can learn from other regional groupings from around the world.

SAARC is a south asian regional grouping comprising: Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, India, Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. These are all geographically contiguous but it has remained jammed for years due to bilateral issues, such as India and Pakistan.

It can learn a great deal from other regional groupings:

→ ASEAN is a south-east asian grouping which has taken the region to economic heights by negotiating trade agreements as a region.

→ European Union has been a considerable force despite significant heterogeneity, and all benefits are shared across the region.

→ BIMSTEC which is a bridge between south and SE Asia is now seen as an alternative to SAARC due to its proactive nature and economic success.

We must ensure that SAARC should not be burdened with bilateral issues so that it can reach its full potential and develop South Asia, among a rising threat from China.