33rd SAARC meeting underway in Thimpu

The meeting of the 33rd SAARC Council of Ministers got under way in Thimpu, the capital of Bhutan with a call for closer cooperation amongst the member countries and effective implementation of the decisions taken in various areas. The Chief Guest at the meeting, the Prime Minister of Bhutan Jigmi Y Thinley reiterated his conviction that a stronger SAARC will not only help the member countries but make the region a hub for global, trade and culture ideas. . He also outlined various initiatives taken during last 25 years since the formation of SAARC.
AIR correspondent says that proposal for liberalizing Visa Exemption Scheme , cooperation in combating terrorism in South Asia region , security related issues , progress made in the implementation of regional Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT), connectivity and economic integration of the region are expected to be discussed at the meeting. The two day meeting of the Council which comprises Foreign Ministers from the member nations will take stock of progress made in the implementation of various initiatives taken so far and set the tone for the next SAARC summit in Male in November. AIR correspondent says that there is a proposal to both expand and rationalize the list under Visa Exemption Scheme. At present MPs, judges, 100 identified business leaders, sports persons and 150 journalists are availing SAARC Visa facility.
India has been seeking a modification of the scheme to implement it effectively without any apprehensions of its misuse. The maritime security proposal mooted by Sri Lanka and Maldives is also expected to be discussed. Ways to accelerate the pace of implementation of SAFTA, FOOD security and some other initiates are also expected to be discussed. The Council of Ministers will consider the outcome and proposals made during the meetings of the Home, Finance, Transport and Tourism Ministers of the SAARC countries.