After the implementation of the Charter, BIMSTEC acquired 'legal personality'

Current Context: The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) acquired a ‘legal personality’ after the implementation of its inaugural charter on May 20th.

• Here are some key points:
• About BIMSTEC: BIMSTEC, formed in 1997, is a multilateral regional organization comprising seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Thailand, Myanmar, and India. It aims to promote technical and economic cooperation among its member countries, particularly in sectors such as security, connectivity, trade, agriculture, environment, science and technology, and people-to-people contact.
• Adoption of the Charter: After years of deliberation, the BIMSTEC leaders adopted the organization’s first charter during their 5th summit. This charter provides a legal framework for the group, granting it a “legal personality” and enabling the structured diplomatic dialogue with other countries and regional groupings.
• Legal Personality: In the context of international organizations like BIMSTEC, obtaining legal personality means that the organization is recognized as a legal entity in its own right, separate from its member states.
• Significance of BIMSTEC for all member countries: The charter’s implementation enhances cooperation and deeper integration within the Bay of Bengal region, benefiting all member states economically and strategically. With the charter in place, member countries can engage in more structured and organized cooperation across various sectors.
• Challenges: Long-standing historical discord between member states, such as Bangladesh and Myanmar, presents a challenge to cohesive cooperation within BIMSTEC. These tensions can hinder progress on joint initiatives and impede the organization’s effectiveness.

Question:

1. What does BIMSTEC stand for?

• A) Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation
• B) Bay of Bengal International Maritime Security and Trade Cooperation
• C) Bay of Bengal Intergovernmental Maritime Security and Trade Cooperation
• D) Bay of Bengal Initiative for Maritime Security and Trade Cooperation

Answer: A) The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) acquired a ‘legal personality’ after the implementation of its inaugural charter on May 20th.