What is the primary focus of BIMSTEC?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
Economic and technical cooperation
Explanation
BIMSTEC stands for the Bayal of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. As the name directly implies, its primary focus is to promote economic development, regional trade, investment, and technical cooperation among the countries dependent on the Bay of Bengal. The organization acts as a bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia, focusing heavily on sectors like connectivity, technology, energy, and transport rather than acting as a military alliance or focusing primarily on space exploration.
Key Points
BIMSTEC was established in 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration to foster rapid economic growth in the region.
It brings together seven member nations: five from South Asia (India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka) and two from Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand).
The cooperation framework is divided into specific sectors, with member countries taking lead roles in areas such as trade, counter-terrorism, climate change, and energy.
By improving regional connectivity (like transport corridors), BIMSTEC aims to unlock the economic potential of landlocked and less-developed regions within its member states.
Additional Facts
The permanent secretariat of BIMSTEC is located in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Together, the BIMSTEC member states represent over 20% of the world's population and a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) exceeding 4 trillion dollars.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: Which seven countries are currently the member states of BIMSTEC?
Answer: The member states are India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand.
Question: In which city is the permanent secretariat of BIMSTEC located?
Answer: The permanent secretariat is located in Dhaka, Bangladesh.