The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional intergovernmental organization established in 1985 to promote economic and regional integration among South Asian countries. Its member states include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. SAARC aims to foster cooperation in various areas such as trade, investment, agriculture, health, education, and culture.
Despite its potential, SAARC has faced challenges in achieving its objectives due to historical tensions, political differences, and bilateral conflicts among its member states. Issues such as the India-Pakistan rivalry and the Indo-Nepal border disputes have hindered progress in regional cooperation and integration.
However, SAARC continues to serve as a platform for dialogue and engagement among South Asian countries, facilitating discussions on common challenges and opportunities facing the region. Efforts to enhance connectivity, trade facilitation, and people-to-people exchanges have been prioritized to promote greater regional cooperation and integration.
Overall, while SAARC has faced challenges in realizing its full potential, it remains an important forum for promoting peace, stability, and development in South Asia, and efforts to revitalize and strengthen the organization continue.