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SAARC

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an organization established in 1985 to promote economic and regional integration among its 8 member states, which represent about 21% of the world's population. SAARC aims to improve the quality of life in South Asia by fostering collaboration in various sectors and addressing common challenges, although it faces issues such as political tensions and economic disparities. The organization operates through summits and a Secretariat in Kathmandu, facilitating initiatives like the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) to enhance intra-regional trade.

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16 views10 pages

SAARC

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an organization established in 1985 to promote economic and regional integration among its 8 member states, which represent about 21% of the world's population. SAARC aims to improve the quality of life in South Asia by fostering collaboration in various sectors and addressing common challenges, although it faces issues such as political tensions and economic disparities. The organization operates through summits and a Secretariat in Kathmandu, facilitating initiatives like the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) to enhance intra-regional trade.

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Navya Arora
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UNDERSTANDING THE

FUNCTIONING OF
SAARC
An overview of the South Asian
Association for Regional
Cooperation
Introduction to SAARC
• The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
(SAARC) is an organization of South Asian nations established
to promote economic and regional integration. It was founded
in 1985 and headquartered in Kathmandu, Nepal. SAARC
serves as a platform for addressing issues such as poverty
alleviation, social development, and environmental protection
in the region. SAARC also facilitates cultural exchanges and
promotes regional stability.
Member Countries

• SAARC consists of 8 member states: Afghanistan,


Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri
Lanka. These countries collectively represent about 21% of
the world's population. Each member country has equal
voting rights in SAARC meetings. Despite diverse socio-
economic backgrounds, member countries share common
historical, cultural, and linguistic ties.
Objectives of SAARC

• SAARC aims to promote economic and regional integration, to


improve the quality of life of the people of South Asia, and to
accelerate economic growth and social progress in the region.
Its objectives include fostering mutual trust and
understanding among member states, enhancing
collaboration in various sectors such as agriculture,
education, health, and culture. SAARC also seeks to address
common challenges like natural disasters, climate change,
and transnational crimes.
Structure of
SAARC
• SAARC operates through various mechanisms including
summits, councils, and standing committees. The Chair of
SAARC rotates annually among member states. Its decision-
making process involves consensus among member states.
SAARC has established specialized bodies and regional
centers to address specific issues such as agriculture,
meteorology, and rural development. The Secretariat
provides administrative support to these bodies.
SAARC Summit
• SAARC Summits are held annually where leaders of member
states discuss and decide on regional cooperation issues.
These summits provide a platform for member states to
address common challenges and opportunities. They also
offer an opportunity for bilateral meetings and engagements
on the sidelines. Declarations and agreements reached during
summits guide the future course of SAARC's activities.
SAARC Secretariat
• The SAARC Secretariat, based in Kathmandu, Nepal, serves as
the coordinating body of SAARC. It facilitates and monitors
the implementation of SAARC activities. The Secretary-
General, appointed by member states, heads the Secretariat.
The Secretariat plays a key role in organizing summits,
meetings, and coordinating regional projects. It also liaises
with international organizations and donor agencies.
SAFTA
• The South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) is an agreement
among the SAARC member countries to reduce customs
duties on goods traded within the region. SAFTA aims to
promote economic integration and boost intra-regional trade.
It facilitates the movement of goods and services, encourages
investment, and fosters economic cooperation among
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA

member states. SAFTA provisions also include trade


facilitation measures and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Challenges Faced by
SAARC
• SAARC faces challenges such as political tensions between
member states, lack of trust, and slow progress in
implementing agreements. Issues like cross-border terrorism,
territorial disputes, and trade barriers hinder the cooperation
process. Economic disparities among member states also
pose challenges to integration efforts. Addressing these
challenges requires political will, mutual understanding, and
concerted efforts from member states.
Conclusion
SAARC continues to strive towards regional cooperation and integration
despite challenges, with the goal of improving the lives of people in
South Asia. It remains a vital platform for fostering dialogue and
collaboration among member states. Efforts to address challenges and
strengthen cooperation are essential for realizing the full potential of
SAARC in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Collective action and regional solidarity are crucial for achieving the
vision of a prosperous and integrated South Asia.

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