E x e r c i s e s . Which among the following statements about South Asia is wrong? a) All the countries in South Asia are democratic. b) Bangladesh and India have signed an agreement on river-water sharing.
c) SAFTA was signed at the 12th SAARC Summit in Islamabad. d) The US and China play an influential role in South Asian politics. . What are some of the commonalities and differences between Bangladesh and Pakistan in their democratic experiences?
. List three challenges to democracy in Nepal. . Name the principal players in the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka.
How do you assess the prospects of the resolution of this conflict? . Mention some of the recent agreements between India and Pakistan. Can we be sure that the two countries are well on their way to a friendly relationship?
. Mention two areas each of cooperation and disagreement between India and Bangladesh. . How are the external powers influencing bilateral relations in South Asia?
Take any one example to illustrate your point. . Write a short note on the role and the limitations of SAARC as a forum for facilitating economic cooperation among the South Asian countries. .
India’s neighbours often think that the Indian government tries to dominate and interfere in the domestic affairs of the smaller countries of the region. Is this a correct impression?