Model Answer

Introduction

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) are regional organizations aimed at fostering cooperation among member states. While both organizations share similarities, they also have distinct differences that influence their effectiveness and the realization of Indian foreign policy objectives.

Similarities Between BIMSTEC and SAARC

1. Geographical Location: Both organizations are situated in South Asia, with member countries that share cultural, historical, and economic ties.
2. Objectives: Both aim to promote regional cooperation and integration in areas such as trade, investment, and infrastructure development.
3. Membership: Some countries are members of both organizations, indicating overlapping interests.

Differences Between BIMSTEC and SAARC

1. Membership: BIMSTEC includes seven countries from South and Southeast Asia, while SAARC has eight member countries exclusively from South Asia.
2. Focus Areas: BIMSTEC emphasizes trade, economic cooperation, connectivity, and energy, whereas SAARC has a broader focus on social and cultural issues, including poverty alleviation and gender equality.
3. Effectiveness: BIMSTEC has been more effective in achieving its objectives due to fewer political tensions and greater economic complementarity among its member countries.

India’s Foreign Policy Objectives Realized Through BIMSTEC

1. Reducing Dependence on SAARC: Given the political tensions within SAARC, India formed BIMSTEC to promote regional cooperation more effectively.
2. Economic Integration: India aims to enhance economic integration among BIMSTEC member countries, contributing to its own economic growth and regional stability.
3. Countering China’s Influence: Strengthening BIMSTEC is part of India’s strategy to counter China’s growing influence in the region and maintain its strategic interests.

Conclusion

While BIMSTEC can be viewed as a parallel organization to SAARC, it offers unique opportunities for regional cooperation and economic integration. For India, BIMSTEC serves as a vital platform to pursue its foreign policy objectives and strengthen ties with neighboring countries.

Model Answer

Introduction

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), established in 2001, plays a pivotal role in promoting regional cooperation among its member nations in areas such as security, economic development, and cultural exchanges. However, the organization faces several internal conflicts, often referred to as the “Virus of Conflict,” which hinders its overall functioning. India, a key member since 2017, plays an essential role in mitigating these challenges, ensuring stability, and fostering collaboration within the SCO framework.

Virus of Conflict Affecting the SCO

1. Border Disputes: Long-standing territorial conflicts, such as the Indo-Pakistani disagreement over Kashmir, continue to affect the cohesion of the SCO, straining diplomatic ties among members.
2. Economic Disparities: The economic philosophies of SCO members vary significantly. Russia’s socialist economy contrasts with China’s market-driven approach, and these differences often complicate policy-making within the organization.
3. Policy Shifts: Changing geopolitical dynamics, including India’s growing relations with the United States and other Western countries, create challenges in aligning the diverse interests of the member states.
4. Governance Differences: India’s democratic system often clashes with the authoritarian political systems of countries like China, leading to ideological disagreements within the SCO.
5. Human Rights Concerns: Issues like the human rights situation in Xinjiang, China, pose challenges for the SCO, requiring diplomatic sensitivity to maintain harmony.
6. Resource Allocation Conflicts: Disputes over resources, such as water scarcity in Central Asia, further complicate relations, necessitating careful negotiation.

India’s Role in Mitigating Problems

1. High-Level Engagements: India actively participates in strengthening SCO cooperation through initiatives such as the health, economic, and cultural cooperation frameworks. This broadens the scope for collaboration.
2. Conflict Resolution: Leveraging its historical non-aligned position, India mediates conflicts, promoting dialogue and fostering stability within the SCO.
3. Economic Ties: Through forums like the SCO Business Conclave, India fosters economic ties, encouraging investment and trade agreements that promote mutual growth.
4. Infrastructure Development: India contributes to regional projects like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), enhancing economic integration within the SCO.
5. Joint Military Exercises: India actively participates in joint military exercises, such as the Peace Mission, to strengthen regional security and foster peace.
6. Counter-Terrorism Efforts: India plays a crucial role in the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), collaborating on intelligence-sharing and counter-terrorism measures.
7. Cultural and Educational Initiatives: Through cultural festivals and educational collaborations, India promotes cultural diplomacy, enhancing ties among SCO nations.

Conclusion

Despite the “Virus of Conflict” affecting the SCO, India plays a central role in mitigating these challenges. By emphasizing diplomacy, economic development, regional security, and cultural exchange, India contributes significantly to fostering a cooperative and peaceful environment within the SCO.