Bilateral and Multilateral Cooperation in South Asia

This book explores the dynamics of bilateral and multilateral relationships in South Asia, highlighting factors such as the absence of shared identities or common threats, lack of trust, and suspicion as obstacles to regional cooperation. It offers case studies and discusses themes such as economic cooperation, sub-regional initiatives, migration and refugee problems, SAARC, terrorism, the Pashtun factor, India's interests in ASEAN and BIMSTEC, nuclear dynamics, India-Bangladesh connectivity issues, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan's relations with the Kashmir Valley. It provides insights into long-standing issues and offers new perspectives for understanding and resolving them.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 24 September 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the intricate dynamics of bilateralism and multilateralism, serving as the pillars that unite countries in pursuit of enhanced regional cooperation. It explores the evolving nature of bilateral and multilateral relationships within South Asia, shedding light on the challenges that hinder regional cooperation. Factors such as the absence of shared identities or common threats from external sources, a lack of trust, and suspicion manifest as formidable obstacles to regional collaboration.

To provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, the volume employs case studies from various constituent countries. These case studies examine themes such as economic cooperation in South Asia, the connections forged through sub-regional initiatives, the complexities of migration and refugee problems in the region, the role of SAARC and terrorism, the Pashtun factor in Afghanistan-Pakistan relations, India's interests in ASEAN and BIMSTEC, the nuclear dynamics of India-Pakistan relations, India-Bangladesh connectivity issues, Sri Lanka's struggles as a troubled island nation, and Afghanistan's complex relations with the Kashmir Valley.

By examining these long-standing issues, the book seeks to bring new perspectives and offer potential solutions to facilitate greater understanding and promote regional cooperation. This comprehensive and accessible volume is of immense value to scholars and researchers in the fields of international relations, international trade, South Asian studies, SAARC, regional development, international and multilateral trade, political studies, geo-politics, strategic and defence studies, and peace and conflict resolution.

The book's exploration of bilateralism and multilateralism in South Asia provides valuable insights into the complex interplay of political, economic, and social factors that shape regional cooperation. It sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that arise from the diverse backgrounds and interests of the countries in the region. By examining the case studies, readers gain a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to regional instability and conflict, as well as the strategies that can be employed to promote peace and stability.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of economic cooperation in South Asia. The region is home to a rapidly growing economy, with countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh playing significant roles. However, economic cooperation has been hindered by factors such as trade barriers, political tensions, and regional security concerns. The book discusses the potential for greater economic integration and cooperation in South Asia, including through initiatives such as the SAARC and BIMSTEC.

Another important theme is the role of sub-regional initiatives in fostering regional cooperation. The book highlights the importance of SAARC, which was established in 1985 to promote economic cooperation, political stability, and cultural exchange among its member states. However, SAARC has faced challenges such as political instability, regional security concerns, and a lack of consensus on key issues. The book examines the potential for sub-regional initiatives such as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) to address these challenges and promote greater economic cooperation in the region.

Migration and refugee problems are also significant challenges that hinder regional cooperation in South Asia. The region is home to a large number of migrants, who often face discrimination, exploitation, and human rights abuses. The book discusses the potential for greater cooperation and coordination among countries in managing migration and refugee flows, including through the establishment of safe and legal migration channels and the provision of humanitarian assistance.

SAARC and terrorism are also important themes that are explored in the book. The region has been plagued by terrorism, with countries such as India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan facing significant threats. The book discusses the potential for greater cooperation and coordination among SAARC member states to combat terrorism, including through the sharing of intelligence, the development of counterterrorism strategies, and the promotion of regional peace and stability.

The Pashtun factor in Afghanistan-Pakistan relations is another important theme that is examined in the book. The Pashtuns are a ethnic group that inhabits the border region between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and their relations with both countries have been complex and often fraught with conflict. The book discusses the potential for greater cooperation and understanding between the Pashtuns and the governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan, including through the promotion of cultural exchange, the development of economic opportunities, and the resolution of territorial disputes.

India's interests in ASEAN and BIMSTEC are also significant themes that are explored in the book. India is a rapidly growing economy with a strong presence in South Asia, and it has been actively pursuing ties with ASEAN and BIMSTEC to promote economic cooperation and political stability in the region. The book discusses the potential for greater economic integration and cooperation between India and ASEAN, as well as the challenges and opportunities that arise from India's membership in BIMSTEC.

The nuclear dynamics of India-Pakistan relations are also important themes that are examined in the book. The region is home to two nuclear-armed states, India and Pakistan, and their relations have been marked by tensions and conflict. The book discusses the potential for greater cooperation and dialogue between India and Pakistan to reduce tensions and promote regional peace and stability.

India-Bangladesh connectivity issues are also significant challenges that hinder regional cooperation in South Asia. The two countries share a long and complex history, and their relations have been marked by tensions and conflict. The book discusses the potential for greater connectivity and cooperation between India and Bangladesh, including through the development of transportation infrastructure, the promotion of trade and investment, and the resolution of territorial disputes.

Sri Lanka's struggles as a troubled island nation are also important themes that are explored in the book. Sri Lanka has faced significant challenges, including civil war, political instability, and economic crisis. The book discusses the potential for greater cooperation and support from the international community to help Sri Lanka address these challenges and promote regional peace and stability.

Finally, Afghanistan's relations with the Kashmir Valley are also important themes that are examined in the book. The Kashmir Valley has been a source of conflict between India and Pakistan for decades, and the book discusses the potential for greater cooperation and dialogue between Afghanistan and Pakistan to promote peace and stability in the region.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and accessible analysis of the dynamics of bilateralism and multilateralism in South Asia. It sheds light on the challenges that hinder regional cooperation and offers potential solutions to promote greater understanding and cooperation among the countries in the region. The book is of immense value to scholars and researchers in the fields of international relations, international trade, South Asian studies, SAARC, regional development, international and multilateral trade, political studies, geo-politics, strategic and defence studies, and peace and conflict resolution.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 220 x 251 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367702557