India recently asserted that it was difficult to proceed with the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) initiative due to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale stated, “The prime minister (Modi) mentioned that he very enthusiastically participated in the Kathmandu (SAARC) summit, but given the current state of play where there is cross-border terrorism and this is a disruptive force in the region. It is difficult in such circumstances to proceed with such initiatives.”

SAARC Summits are usually held biennially hosted by a member state in alphabetical order. The member state hosting the summit assumes the Chair of the Association.

“While India is very supportive of all regional connectivity and regional cooperation issues, the views expressed by the Prime Minister was Prime Minister Oli was well aware of the circumstances," Gokhale said.