South Asian Association for Regional Co-Operation (SAARC)

South Asian Association for Regional Co-Operation (SAARC)

South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation is the regional inter governmental organization   and   geo-political   union   of nations in South Asia. The member countries include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Srilanka, Pakistan and Maldives. It was established on 8th December 1985. It was founded at Dhaka in Bangladesh.

Objectives of SAARC

The objectives of SAARC include the following

1.        Promoting the welfare of people of Asia

2.        Achieving economic growth, social programme and cultural development in member countries.

3.        Strengthening self reliance among the members

4.        Strengthening co-operation among the members as well as with other developing countries and international and regional organization.

5.        Maintaining peace among the member nations in the region.

Council

At the top SAARC is represented by the heads of member nations.  It  meets  once in two years. The head quarter is located  in Nepal. SAARC secretariat is headed by the Secretary General appointed by the members.

Functions

Functions of SAARC are highlighted

1.        Monitoring and co-ordinating the development programme

2.        Determining inter-sectoral priorities

3.        Mobilizing cooperation within and outside the region.

4.        Dealing with modalities of financing