Explanations:The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an economic and geopolitical organization of eight countries in South Asia. It was established on December 8, 1985, with the signing of the SAARC Charter in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The first summit of SAARC was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on December 7-8, 1985, marking the official establishment of the organization. The member states of SAARC are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
SAARC aims to promote economic and social cooperation among its member states, enhance regional stability, and foster a sense of regional identity. The organization has been instrumental in fostering regional cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, technology, and cultural exchange.
As of 2015, SAARC has a significant presence in the global context. It comprises approximately 3% of the world's area, which is a substantial geographical footprint. More importantly, SAARC represents about 21% of the world's population, making it a region with a large demographic influence. In terms of economic contribution, SAARC accounts for 3.8% of the global economy, with a GDP of approximately US$ 2.9 trillion. This economic contribution highlights the region's growing importance in the global economic landscape.
The correct answer, Option A, states that both statements are true. The first statement correctly identifies Dhaka, Bangladesh, as the location of the first SAARC summit. The second statement accurately reflects the economic and demographic statistics of SAARC as of 2015. Understanding these details is crucial for comprehending the historical and contemporary significance of SAARC in the context of South Asian regional cooperation and global economic dynamics.