Members push to revive SAARC, but India holds firm
Summary
Calls to revive SAARC are intensifying across South Asia, but India’s opposition and its rivalry with Pakistan continue to block progress. Nepal, the Maldives, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Bhutan have expressed support, while diplomats say the bloc is unlikely to move without an India-Pakistan understanding.
Key Points
- Member states including the Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Bhutan are renewing calls to revive SAARC, but India remains opposed to another summit.
- Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu urged revival of the bloc during his visit to Pakistan and said the Maldives was ready to help create the conditions for it.
- India says SAARC cannot function while Pakistan is linked to terrorism, and Pakistani officials accuse India of holding the organisation hostage.
- Experts say diplomatic support alone is unlikely to restart SAARC unless India and Pakistan bridge their differences.
