India’s Firm Stance on Terrorism in SAARC Discussions
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently met with Bangladesh’s Foreign Advisor Touhid Hossain in Oman, where the topic of resuming the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was raised. During the discussions, Jaishankar emphasized the importance of not normalizing terrorism, a critical point given the historical context of cross-border terrorism supported by Pakistan.
The SAARC Dilemma
Bangladesh’s call for a SAARC Standing Committee meeting is particularly noteworthy as it comes after a long hiatus since 2016. This stagnation in the SAARC process has been primarily due to India’s concerns over Pakistan’s role in harboring terrorism. While Bangladesh appears keen to revive ties with Pakistan following the exit of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, India remains focused on enhancing cooperation through the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), which excludes Pakistan from its framework.
Regional Cooperation vs. Terrorism
The contrasting approaches highlight the complexities of regional cooperation in South Asia. Jaishankar’s insistence on addressing terrorism reflects India’s broader security concerns and its commitment to ensuring stability in the region. The discussion also underscores the need for a collective effort to combat terrorism, an issue that transcends national boundaries.
Stay Updated with Looffers.com
For the latest updates on India’s foreign policy, public holidays, and more, visit Looffers.com. Your go-to source for timely information and exclusive offers!
In conclusion, as discussions on SAARC continue, it is vital for member states to address the pressing issue of terrorism while exploring avenues for cooperation that foster peace and development in the region.
