The word seven consists of the term Even. But the 7 countries of SAARC are are not even in any matter, despite of the original motive to achieve an even growth. Over last few years, the whole focus seems to have been lost and now the SAARC summits are ending up in chit-chats or mere annual talks without reaching any conducive results. Thus it has become just a gimmick, and the world as ceased to see towards it with any seriousness.
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The reasons for the failure are many. Mainly, it is the lack of will on the part of the participating nations. Since 5 out of 7 countries are politically unstable, it makes no sense to blame the respective governments. The latest addition to this group was Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – which is still in batters. There is a long list of nations who have formally wished to be at least observers, while a few like China, are wriggling their way in. The membership of China is supported by Pakistan and Bangladesh (Of course, who else???) and now even Sri Lanka is pitching for it. Though China feels, its too early for a full membership, and all it wants is, just more control in the group. India, sensibly has its reasons to be reluctant to accept China’s membership, but it has given green signal for the observer status. Russia, Myanmar, and Indonesia have also put forth a formal request to be a part of this group.
The group undoubtedly suffers due to the tension between India and Pakistan. A preferential Trade Agreement does exist between these 7 nations, but yet a few nations haven’t ratified it. India already has good trade relations and agreements with Nepal, Bhutan, and Maldives. The trades with Pakistan and Bangaldesh are on hold, due to the conflicts. As a result there seems to be no political unity or might working behind to make this group stronger towards the benefits of their citizens.
There seems to be distrust and anarchy amongst the 7 nations, and thus this group remains to be a public spectable without any issues being handled seriously. With Nepal getting into trouble we cannot offer any help, neither has SAARC found any solution for Sri Lanka’s fight against LTTE. This group works on chaos theory, where all things are falling apart and then falling in place with no intervention from any of the member.
The group which could have been a boon if worked out properly (like European Union), but due to sheer neglegence, it will turn into a curse especially to India. Experts have suggested ways to strengthen it with measures like common currency, making better guidelines for Intra-SAARC trade, and stronger political tie-ups amongst nations. Will SAARC end up being an outcasted platform to bring Asia together, or will it sharpen its focus to unite bordering countries for better economic growth, only time will tell!!!
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nice blog
Thanx Atul,
A word of praise helps to boost our (Dynamic Team) spirits .
Thanx once again and hope to see you more !
Dagadu..u focused right issue at the right time. Despite abundent natural resources, member countries havent done enough. Its the time to channelise energy, resources in right direction.