Maldives Seeks Revival of Stalled South Asian Bloc Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

POLICY WIRE — Male, Maldives — The Maldives has called for the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), a grouping that has been inactive for over a decade. The call comes amid persistent tensions between two of the region’s most influential nations, India — and Pakistan.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu announced on July 26 that his country is prepared to assist in the resumption of Saarc meetings. The last such meeting took place 12 years ago.

Observers suggest that the longstanding animosity between India and Pakistan is likely to impede any immediate progress towards reviving the bloc. The Saarc, which includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, has been effectively paralyzed since its last summit in 2014.

President Muizzu emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, stating, “The Maldives is committed to fostering dialogue and collaboration among Saarc nations to address common challenges and promote mutual growth.”

The Saarc was established in 1985 with the aim of promoting economic — and regional integration. However, its effectiveness has been repeatedly undermined by the geopolitical rivalry between India — and Pakistan.

Efforts to reconvene Saarc meetings have been complicated by the political dynamics between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. India has previously boycotted Saarc summits in response to cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan, while Pakistan has accused India of using the bloc as a platform for its own strategic interests.

The Maldives’ recent push for Saarc revival indicates a renewed diplomatic effort to bridge the divide and foster a cooperative environment in South Asia. However, the success of such efforts remains uncertain given the entrenched positions of India — and Pakistan.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)