![Sample our Law journals, sign in here to start your FREE access for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5942/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Law.jpg"})
Abstract
South Asia is a latecomer with regard to regionalisom compared with other regions of the world and the Indian Ocean Region in particular, which have established at least one group in their respective regions. The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)'s initial role as the representative of South Asian countries remained declaratory without delivering tangible political or economic benefits. Globalisation and regional market reforms by India and Pakistan ushered in a certain degree of seriousness among the member countries. Regional trade liberalisation agreements were signed to boost intra-regional trade, although these were limited in their scope. Nor did their performance result in tangible growth in trade among the members. The region's inherent political and economic problems inhibit SAARC's steady progress as an integrating body. However, as the South Asian countries are integrating more with the other regional trading blocs such as the Association for Southeast Asian Nations and the European Union, and as other countries and regional groups are also eager to affiliate with the SAARC, hopefully such combined regional vs. extra-regional interaction will push SAARC in the direction of more concrete actions. The role of non-governmental organisations is a very helpful input to foster the process of regional integration. Recent active interest in SAARC affairs by certain civil society groups also can help promote regional integration.