As the world grapples with a deadly virus — economies, societies, public health and human security have been severely disrupted. Tensions in bilateral relations between nations have emerged as well. In fact, COVID-19 has compelled the world to re-envision its strategies of contestation and cooperation.
Regionalism is being observed as the basis underpinning a post-COVID order. The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation’s (SAARC) effort led by India in initiating a counter mechanism against the virus — through the creation of a common emergency fund along with virtual meeting with member countries — has been significant. However, the feasibility of actions to be taken at a time when countries are reeling under rising Covid numbers need to be seen. Equally important is to watch the growing Chinese assertion amidst threats of economic recession.
This webinar will examine the following key questions:
• How can economy and regionalism be revived in South Asia?
• Can the SAARC reshape from ‘rhetoric to action’ in the post-COVID regional order?
• How much of Chinese economic help does South Asia require?
• Will initiatives of better connectivity help the process of revival?
C. Raja Mohan, Director, Institute of South Asian Studies, National University of Singapore
David Brewster, Senior Research Fellow with the National Security College, Australian National University
Navnita Chadha Behera, Professor, Department of Political Science, Delhi University
Anasua Basu Ray Chaudhury, Senior Fellow, ORF Kolkata
