New Delhi, Feb. 7 -- The recent case of Hamida Bano, an Indian woman trafficked to Pakistan and repatriated after 22 years, has again highlighted the need for regional cooperation. It is incredible that human traffickers and those engaged in other illegal activities are able to transcend borders so easily, while bona fide travellers and members of divided families are kept hanging for visas in the region.

Cooperation among South Asian countries is even more essential with President Donald Trump back in the White House. His administration is taking a tougher stance against immigration which may have implications for Southasians going to the U.S.

In January, under the Biden Administration, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security finalize...