New Delhi

India aims to enhance regional cooperation through the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), but challenges from one member nation are hindering progress, according to Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs. During a media briefing on Friday, Jaiswal highlighted the importance India places on regional connectivity, stating, We have given impetus to BIMSTEC, an alternative regional initiative.

He noted that while India is committed to strengthening SAARC, it faces obstacles due to the actions of a specific country that disrupt the collaborative efforts of the group. Jaiswal reiterated, One particular country has a unique approach that is stalling SAARC, underscoring India’s dedication to regional cooperation through other platforms.

SAARC includes eight South Asian countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Earlier this year, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar pointedly criticized Pakistan, saying that India cannot hold SAARC meetings while that country continues to engage in terrorism. He emphasized that terrorism happening by night and trade by day is unacceptable.

Jaishankar explained that the lack of recent SAARC meetings stems from a member not meeting the fundamental requirements of cooperation. He stressed the urgency of addressing these issues to facilitate genuine collaboration in the region.