China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh Eye Saarc Alternative Amid India’s Strategic Silence

In a significant geopolitical development, China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh have reportedly initiated discussions to form a new regional grouping aimed at replacing the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), which has remained largely inactive since 2016. According to The Express Tribune, a recent meeting held in Kunming, China, on June 19, focused on inviting former Saarc members to join this new bloc to enhance regional integration and connectivity.

The talks between Islamabad and Beijing are said to be in advanced stages, while Bangladesh participated at the official level. However, Dhaka has denied the formation of any formal alliance, clarifying that the Kunming meeting was non-political.

Saarc, formed in 1985, lost momentum after the 2016 Uri terror attack, prompting India to boycott the scheduled summit in Islamabad. Afghanistan, Bhutan, and Bangladesh also withdrew, citing terrorism concerns. India has since redirected its focus to sub-regional cooperation, particularly through the BBIN initiative (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal), bypassing Pakistan’s repeated obstruction of key Saarc agendas.

India played a pivotal role in Saarc’s vision, leading projects like the South Asian University and proposing cross-border agreements. However, persistent Pakistani vetoes stalled economic and security frameworks, leading to the grouping’s gradual dormancy.

While reports suggest India may be invited to the new bloc, diplomatic sources indicate it’s unlikely to join, given its strategic and security concerns.