SAARC_BIMSTEC_Bangladesh_Presentation.pptx

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1. Assess and Compare the Importance of SAARC and BIMSTEC for the National Interest of Bangladesh Course Code: IR-401 | Jahangirnagar University Department of International Relations Group Members: Md Sojib (1216), Naeem Haque (1218), Siyam Sarkar (1225), Mobarok Hossain (1228), Md Asikur Rahman (1237)

2. Introduction Regional cooperation is essential for modern economic and political stability. Bangladesh participates in regional organizations like SAARC and BIMSTEC. These platforms promote trade, diplomacy, and sustainable development.

3. Background of SAARC Founded in 1985 in Dhaka with 7 member states. Now includes 8 countries — Afghanistan joined later. Aims to promote welfare, economic growth, and mutual trust among South Asian nations.

4. Background of BIMSTEC Formed in 1997 with Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand — later Myanmar, Nepal, Bhutan joined. Focuses on Bay of Bengal economic and technical cooperation. Connects South Asia and Southeast Asia strategically.

5. Bangladesh’s National Interest in SAARC Economic growth through regional trade (SAFTA, 2006). Access to 2 billion consumer market across South Asia. Infrastructure and connectivity projects improve trade and transport links.

6. Social and Human Development via SAARC SAARC Poverty Alleviation and Education Programs. Cultural exchanges and youth cooperation programs. SAARC Disaster Management Centre supports Bangladesh during crises.

7. Political and Diplomatic Benefits Regional diplomacy platform with India, Pakistan, Nepal, etc. Promotes peace and stability in South Asia. Strengthens Bangladesh’s voice in global forums.

8. Bangladesh’s National Interest in BIMSTEC Links South and Southeast Asia through Bay of Bengal. Enhances trade, transport, and technology cooperation. BIMSTEC Secretariat established in Dhaka in 2014 — diplomatic recognition.

9. Economic and Strategic Value of BIMSTEC Promotes regional trade and investment through FTA framework. Encourages energy cooperation and maritime security. Opens new export markets for Bangladesh (garments, pharma, ceramics).

10. Bangladesh as Chair of BIMSTEC Bangladesh’s leadership role enhances its diplomatic profile. Opportunity to influence regional economic and security policies. Potential to balance interests between India and Southeast Asian nations.

11. Comparative Analysis: SAARC vs BIMSTEC SAARC faces political challenges (India–Pakistan tensions). BIMSTEC is more economic and functional in recent years. Bangladesh benefits from both but BIMSTEC offers wider connectivity.

12. Future Prospects & Evaluation Bangladesh can be a regional hub for trade and connectivity. Need to modernize transport, ports, and digital cooperation. Effective participation in both SAARC and BIMSTEC ensures balanced diplomacy.

13. Conclusion SAARC and BIMSTEC both serve Bangladesh’s national interests. SAARC focuses on socio-political harmony; BIMSTEC on economic integration. Together, they enhance Bangladesh’s regional and global standing.