The first Asia-Africa summit, also known as the Bandung Conference, took place in Bandung, Indonesia, from April 18 to 24, 1955.
About Bandung Conference
- Genesis: In April 1955, representatives from 29 governments of Asian and African nations gathered in Bandung, Indonesia to discuss peace and the role of the Third World in the Cold War, economic development, and decolonization.
- It was co-sponsored by Indonesia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, and Pakistan.
- 10 Core Principles of Bandung Conference: Political self-determination, mutual respect for sovereignty, non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, and equality, etc.
- Precursor of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM): The Bandung Conference and its final resolution laid the foundation for the NAM during the Cold War.
What is NAM?
- About: The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) is an organization of States that did not formally align with the US or USSR and sought to remain independent.
- Formation: It was formed in 1961, in the background of the Cold War between the USSR and US.
- NAM’s first conference: The Belgrade Conference in 1961.
- Core Principles: "Ten Principles of Bandung" proclaimed during the Bandung Conference were later adopted as the main goals/principles of NAM.
- Membership: 121 members (including India).
- The NAM does not have a formal founding charter or treaty, nor does it have a permanent secretariat.
