LAHORE: Like the EU (European Union) and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), South Asia, a region of 2 billion people, has yet to capitalize on its proximity and come together despite a shared history, diverse culture, and philosophy.
Iftikhar Ali Malik, former President of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, expressed these views while chairing an inaugural session of a seminar through Zoom with the theme of” How South Asia can emerge as a thriving region” in Lahore on Sunday.
He said that the leaders in South Asia need a vision followed by a strong will to act. Pakistan has much to offer, especially to smaller nations, and even making inroads through the use of drone technology in agriculture. He argued that if Pakistan-made footballs are used in World Cup matches, why could they not be used in South Asia?
He said that trade among countries in South Asia can reduce abject poverty. By setting aside mistrust, businesses would be less cumbersome, and digital connectivity and transport would also improve.
He said that Pakistan has yet another advantage of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which can offer regional economic connectivity to all South with Central Asian nations via Pakistan. There is an emerging trend in parts of the region to forge relations without Pakistan and Afghanistan, which must be averted in the larger interests of South and Central Asia, lagging behind the rest of the world, he added.
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Malik said the region can progress and grow remarkably if the policy of “non-interference and non-hegemonic” is strictly adhered to. He urged for regional connectivity and economic integration in South Asia as the world becomes increasingly interconnected; fostering collaboration among neighboring countries is imperative for sustainable development and shared prosperity.
South Asia a Rich Region
He further said that the region is endowed with rich resources and immense potential; however, the full realization of this potential is hindered by barriers that impede investment, smooth trade, and people-to-people contacts. In order to overcome these challenges and unlock the benefits of cooperation, he said that it is imperative for the countries in South Asia to come together and enhance their regional connectivity.
