AAI to spread its wings across SAARC nations, govt looks to boost influence

The move is part of India's plan of building influence in the region through building infrastructure

State-owned airport operator Airport Authority of India (AAI) plans to foray in neighbouring countries to earn extra revenue. Simultaneously, this step is an attempt by the government to increase the nation’s influence in the region.

SAARC is the regional intergovernmental organization and geopolitical union of states in South Asia. Its member states include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

“The business development unit of AAI has begun discussions with several countries in SAARC region to pitch how expertise of AAI can help in developing aviation infrastructure in those countries,” said a senior AAI official.

“We