BIMSTEC and SAARC are key regional organizations focused on South and Southeast Asian cooperation, yet they serve distinct geopolitical purposes.

Q.10 Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC ? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two ? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realised by forming this new organisation?

Model Answer:

Introduction

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) was established in 1997 with the objective of fostering regional cooperation among its member countries: Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan. BIMSTEC aims to enhance economic cooperation, connectivity, and security collaboration among the member states. It plays a crucial role in India's Act East policy by strengthening ties with Southeast Asian countries and promoting regional integration.

Body

Differences between BIMSTEC and SAARC:

  1. Membership:
  • BIMSTEC includes countries from South Asia and Southeast Asia, bridging the two regions.
  • SAARC is limited to South Asian countries only.
  1. Focus Areas:
  • BIMSTEC emphasises economic cooperation, connectivity, and security, with a focus on sectors like trade, technology, energy, and counter-terrorism.
  • SAARC primarily focuses on regional cooperation in areas such as agriculture, rural development, and social welfare, with limited success in security cooperation.

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Similarities between BIMSTEC and SAARC:

  • Both organisations aim to promote regional cooperation and economic integration among member states.
  • Both seek to enhance mutual trust and understanding, and to address common challenges such as poverty, terrorism, and climate change.

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Realisation of Indian Foreign Policy Objectives through BIMSTEC:

  • Countering Chinese Influence: By strengthening regional cooperation and connectivity, India can counterbalance China's growing influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region.
  • Enhanced Connectivity: BIMSTEC facilitates better connectivity with Southeast Asian countries, promoting trade, investment, and cultural exchange, which aligns with India's Act East policy.
  • Security Cooperation: BIMSTEC's focus on security collaboration, including counter-terrorism and maritime security, helps India address regional security challenges and enhance its strategic interests.

Conclusion

Regional organisations like BIMSTEC are vital for achieving India's foreign policy objectives. BIMSTEC serves as a bridge between South and Southeast Asia, fostering regional integration and cooperation. Its role in enhancing connectivity, economic collaboration, and security cooperation underscores the importance of such organisations in promoting regional stability and prosperity.

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