The biggest problem of SAARC was the political rivalry between India and Pakistan, which has become a huge obstacle to effective regional policy making. BIMSTEC does not have that problem. Here, the goal is not competition, but cooperation to achieve economic prosperity. As a result, member countries are able to reach consensus and take practical development initiatives.
The diplomacy of restraint, recently practiced by both nations, can be a powerful asset in achieving ambitious climate targets. By working as complementary partners rather than competitors, India and China can manage growth and societal well-being in a more inclusive and sustainable manner, thereby mitigating the planet-wide existential threat of climate change.
A bridge between India and Sri Lanka is more than just an infrastructure project; it is a symbol of the enduring historic bond between two nations. As you pointed out, both countries "do not have a land boundary." The bridge shall represent our shared histories, mutual aspirations, and a commitment to a future of prosperity and cooperation between two neighbours.
Currently, another organization called Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is gaining importance in which several countries including India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand are associated. It is creating a connection between South Asia and Southeast Asia, where Pakistan and Afghanistan are not included. India is currently focusing on BIMSTEC instead of SAARC
The broader message of the Sino-India pact is clear: the world is moving toward a multipolar order where the dominance of Western powers is increasingly being challenged by the rise of nations like China and India. This agreement exemplifies the ability of non-Western nations to resolve their conflicts without Western interference
China has been saying that the border question should be left separate from the bilateral relationship, implying it should be kept on the back burner. Resumption of patrolling in Ladakh, in whatever form, will be good, But the reversion to pre-April 2020 posture by China is out of the question.
Nepal made history with its 2007 judgment, becoming the first South Asian nation to formally register same-sex marriage, with a trans woman and a gay man legally marrying in the Lamjung district. It also passed affirming laws regarding sexual orientation and gender identity, including the legal recognition of a third gender over ten years ago, placing Nepal ahead of many other countries.
The SAFER project achieves two goals, by prioritizing participation of women, children, youth, and resilience of vulnerable communities, and by achieving gender equality and social justice. This ambitious project by Pakistan sets a precedent for other developing nations to follow, showing the importance of community driven, ecosystem based approaches to climate adaptation.
ADR law aims to make justice more accessible and reduce the burden on courts, which currently have over 4.48 crore (nearly 45 million) cases pending from District Court to Supreme Court, 1.08 crore of which are civil disputes and 3.40 crore of which are criminal cases. According to the National Judicial Data Grid, these cases have been pending for anywhere from one year to more than 30 years.
Beyond the immediate flare up, the fact that Trudeau is sticking to his guns so publicly without offering any actionable evidence could mean that internally he is certain of the damaging nature of what his law enforcement has gathered. If not, then he is playing a dangerous game prompted by domestic political compulsions.
The current government came to power with promises of systemic reform and state reorganization. However, the alarming rise of mob justice across Bangladesh suggests a shift from reform to revenge. Since the police returned to duty on August 11, 21 people have been beaten to death in 38 days, with only eight arrests. This highlights the failure of law enforcement to curb mob violence
The rise of populism, religious polarisation, and centralization of power have raised concerns, especially concerning freedom of speech. While India's framework of democracy is more vibrant and institutionalized compared to its neighbors where fear of authoritarianism or military interventions is constant, it requires sustained efforts to put that democracy on a solid foundation.
A growing concept in India, known as silver economics, aims to empower elderly individuals to become entrepreneurs, enabling them to take control of their own solutions and challenging the notion that entrepreneurship is reserved exclusively for the younger generation.
Analysts believe that Jaishanakar's visit will be a significant opportunity for India to reinforce its commitment to providing development support for its strategically situated Indian Ocean neighbor amid worries about a shift in its foreign policy under the new president.
Pakistan’s pivot to geo-economics has gained significant momentum, particularly in the context of its deepening ties with Central Asian Republics and Azerbaijan, aligning with the country's goal of becoming a regional trade hub
For India, Pakistan and Bangladesh's defence cooperation is reason for concern. The long, porous border between India and Bangladesh, along with New Delhi's historical position as a vital supporter of Dhaka, make any reconciliation between Islamabad and Dhaka a sensitive matter. The weapons agreement, in particular, has fuelled suspicion in India about a potential shift in Bangladesh's outlook, particularly in light of the anti-India rhetoric that surrounded the protests that led to Hasina's removal.
India’s superpower ambitions require a comprehensive strategy to use the Indian education sector, both private and government, towards advancing India's strategic aims and objectives. A starting point to experiment such knowledge/education diplomacy lies in its neighbourhood.
However, religion, domestic compulsions and failure to improve political conditions, with or without national elections, have embroiled Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh, all compounded by economic woes, in issues that impinge on their national identity.
In a way, Sri Lanka's economic crisis has served as a blessing in disguise, bringing India and Sri Lanka closer as South Asian neighbors. However, India remains concerned about security in the Indian Ocean, where China has been actively expanding its influence.
