South Asia is home to a quarter of the entire humanity, while its adjacent regions house another quarter of the global population. Yet, the level of connectivity and cooperation that has catapulted many other parts of the world to high quality industrial and human development has been mostly missing in the region.

Building understanding through addressing mistrust and misperceptions – and spreading knowledge and promoting dialogue – could pave the way for an enabling environment where disputes would be resolved through peaceful means, and mutual respect and trust would replace hegemonic ambitions.

Since its inception in 1982, as an autonomous think tank, IRS' slogan is "know thy neighbor." It has accordingly provided quality in-depth research and objective analysis of political, economic and social issues in the region.

As President IRS, one of my top priorities will be to provide insightful policy inputs on key issues. While focusing on geo-political and geo-economic challenges, IRS will lend enhanced attention to human development, demography, culture, maritime affairs, cyber security and climate change.

IRS will enhance its interaction with academia, industry and media. The scope of initiatives to engage the youth will be widened, and research methodology courses will be conducted to facilitate young researchers. A vibrant internship program is being expanded upon.