Concept notes: SAARC, or the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, is an economic and political organization of eight countries in South Asia. The first SAARC summit was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in 1985. As of 2015, SAARC countries collectively represent 3% of the world's area, 21% of the world's population, and 3.8% of the global economy.
Explanation: SAARC, or the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, is a regional intergovernmental organization that was established on December 8, 1985, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The primary objective of SAARC is to promote economic and social development in the region through collective self-reliance and mutual cooperation among member states. The organization comprises eight countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
The first SAARC summit was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in 1985. This summit marked the formal establishment of SAARC and laid the foundation for future cooperation among the member states. The choice of Dhaka as the venue for the first summit underscores the importance of Bangladesh in the regional context and its role in fostering regional cooperation.
As of 2015, SAARC countries collectively represent a significant portion of the world's area, population, and economy. Specifically, SAARC countries account for 3% of the world's area, 21% of the world's population, and 3.8% of the global economy. These statistics highlight the substantial demographic and economic presence of SAARC countries on the global stage. The economic contribution of SAARC countries, measured in terms of GDP, is approximately US$ 2.9 trillion, which further emphasizes their importance in the global economic landscape.
Understanding the significance of SAARC and its member states is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of regional cooperation and economic development in South Asia. The organization plays a vital role in fostering economic and social development through various initiatives and programs aimed at enhancing regional integration and cooperation. The accurate representation of SAARC's economic and demographic statistics is essential for evaluating its impact and potential in the global context.
In conclusion, both statements (a) and (b) are true. The first SAARC summit was indeed held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and the economic statistics provided for SAARC countries as of 2015 are accurate. This comprehensive understanding of SAARC's history and economic significance is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations and those interested in regional cooperation and development in South Asia.