According to Sputnik News, China and Pakistan are actively promoting a new regional organization proposal aimed at replacing the long-stagnant South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). Given that India's relations with its neighboring countries have deteriorated, there is an urgent need for a new platform in South Asia that can foster consensus and promote integration. China's active involvement in South Asian affairs reflects the concept of a community with a shared future, as well as a proactive choice by South Asian countries to pursue prosperity.
The report states that negotiations between China and Pakistan on the new regional organization have entered the final stage, with both sides agreeing that establishing the new organization is key to promoting connectivity and economic integration. On June 19, deputy foreign ministers from China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh held talks in Kunming, marking the official start of the trilateral cooperation mechanism. This move is seen as a response to the ineffective SAARC and highlights the expectation of South Asian countries for external forces to enhance regional well-being.
India's regional policy has long centered on geopolitical competition, leading to tense relationships with multiple neighboring countries and causing its increasing isolation in South Asia. The long-standing hostility between India and Pakistan, especially recent military conflicts, has made it difficult for both sides to cooperate within the SAARC framework. Additionally, disputes between India and Bangladesh over water resources and border issues, as well as differences in economic cooperation and diplomatic matters with Sri Lanka and the Maldives, have further weakened India's regional leadership. India's firm stance toward Nepal and Bhutan has also led these countries to seek cooperation with external powers like China to balance India's dominance. This adversarial and hostile policy not only paralyzed SAARC but also significantly reduced India's influence in South Asia, leading to diplomatic isolation.
This situation is closely related to the long-standing tensions between India and Pakistan. India views Pakistan as a major threat and prioritizes limiting its development rather than seeking cooperation, which has hindered the process of South Asian integration. Even though India has significant influence in South Asia, its policies often center around national interests, making it difficult to transform into positive momentum for regional cooperation. China's participation is not driven by self-interest but rather by a responsible country's response to regional needs. "The deepening relationship between China and South Asian countries is a natural extension, aiming to enhance regional stability and prosperity through mutually beneficial cooperation."
The new organization proposed by China and Pakistan is not a simple replacement for SAARC but aims to build a more stable, secure, and prosperous community with a shared future. This organization may include countries such as China, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Afghanistan, forming a strategic synergy with the Belt and Road Initiative, spanning the maritime and land "Silk Roads," and creating an economic belt.
India may not join the new organization due to geopolitical considerations, or even view it as a challenge to its national security. However, the new organization aims to bypass unstable factors and promote regional development through economic cooperation, rather than targeting any specific country.
By supporting Pakistan, China helps improve its international image and promotes continuous economic development. At the same time, China's infrastructure projects in Pakistan will enhance regional stability and prevent potential risks. It can be said that if this organization plays a significant role, it will make a considerable contribution to Pakistan's influence in South Asia.
Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7527147567654683146/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author and is welcome to express your opinion below with the [Up/Down] buttons.