Which of the following statements is true about ASEAN?

A- The objectives of ASEAN were primarily to accelerate economic growth and through that "social progress and cultural development."
B- Unlike the EU, there is little desire in ASEAN for supranational structures and institutions.
C- The respect for national sovereignty is critical to the functioning of ASEAN.
D- The ASEAN-India FTA came into effect in 2015.

Choose the correct answer from the given options:

A, B & C

The correct answer is Option 4 - A, B & C

Given statements:

A- The objectives of ASEAN were primarily to accelerate economic growth and through that "social progress and cultural development." (CORRECT)
B- Unlike the EU, there is little desire in ASEAN for supranational structures and institutions. (CORRECT)
C- The respect for national sovereignty is critical to the functioning of ASEAN. (CORRECT)
D- The ASEAN-India FTA came into effect in 2015. (INCORRECT)

Correction in Option D: The ASEAN-India FTA came into effect in 2010.

The ASEAN-India FTA came into effect in 2010. ASEAN’s strength, however, lies in its policies of interaction and consultation with member states, with dialogue partners, and with other non-regional organisations. It is the only regional association in Asia that provides a political forum where Asian countries and the major powers can discuss political and security concerns.