India’s membership to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation is looking bright in 2015-2016. Joining this inter-regional cooperation would ensure India’s access to the global supply chain, not only boosting India’s economy but also easing its entry into new markets in the Pacific. 

Kevin Rudd, former Australian Prime Minister, a member of the task force that is making a case for India’s entry into APEC, stated India’s entry will lead to greater economic cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, helping peace and stability in the area. Key APEC member economies – the United States of America, Australia, and Japan – have officially welcomed India’s interest in joining the regional organization. APEC accounts for 40% of the world’s population, 55% of gross domestic product, and 44% of world trade. 

India had previously sought APEC membership and was granted observer status in 2011. As a rising power, India now seeks a greater role in Asian and global affairs through full membership of APEC. 

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India’s APEC membership chances looking bright now: Ex-Australian PM Kevin Rudd