SAARC and BIMSTEC Silent on Nepal's Devastating Flood Disaster
Summary
SAARC and BIMSTEC have drawn criticism for their silence after devastating floods in Nepal triggered by climate change. While multiple countries and international bodies have offered aid, the regional organizations have yet to show meaningful coordination or relief action.
Key Points
- Nepal is reeling from a major Bhote Koshi flood disaster, with heavy losses of life and property and more than 600 foreign nationals missing.
- SAARC and BIMSTEC have largely remained silent, despite Nepal being a SAARC member and the SAARC Secretariat being based in Kathmandu.
- The BIMSTEC Secretariat issued a condolence message and said member states had provided humanitarian assistance, but Nepali authorities say they have received no direct help from the blocs.
- Former foreign ministry secretary Dr. Madan Bhattarai said weak coordination and stalled dialogue among member countries have left regional cooperation ineffective.
