Question

Which of the following statements shows major differences between SAARC and the European Union as an alternative centre for the poor?

1. The European Union bears economic political-diplomatic and military influence all over the region and its closest neighbors whereas SAARC is limited to its South Asian Region only.
2. The member states of the European Union are maximum from among the developed countries while SAARC members are from among the least developed countries (LOCs).
3. The EU behaves like a nation-state by having its own anthem and currency but SARRC does not enjoy these.

Options

• i, ii

• i, ii, iii

• ii, iii

• i, iii

Answer 1

i, ii

Explanation:

1. The European Union wields economic, political, diplomatic, and military power throughout the region and its immediate neighbours, whereas SAARC is limited to its South Asian region.
2. The European Union's member states are mostly from developed countries, whereas SAARC members are mostly from developing countries (LOCs).
3. The EU acts like a nation-state by having its own anthem and currency, but the SARRC does not.
4. The EU performs well in international economic organizations such as the WTO, but SAARC initiated SAFTA solely to foster economic cooperation among its member states.