South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)
SAARC stands for South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. It is a regional intergovernmental organization and geopolitical union in South Asia.
Member Countries:
SAARC has 8 member states:
Afghanistan
Bangladesh
Bhutan
India
Maldives
Nepal
Pakistan
Sri Lanka
Establishment:
Founded on: December 8, 1985
Headquarters: Kathmandu, Nepal
Objectives of SAARC:
SAARC aims to:
Promote the welfare of the people of South Asia
Accelerate economic growth, social progress, and cultural development
Foster mutual trust, understanding, and peaceful coexistence
Strengthen cooperation among member states in areas like education, health, agriculture, environment, and science & technology
Key Principles:
Sovereign equality of all member states
Non-interference in internal matters of others
Decisions are made by unanimity
Bilateral and contentious issues are excluded from discussions
SAARC Initiatives and Institutions:
SAARC Development Fund (SDF)
South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) — for promoting trade and economic cooperation
Member Countries: