The correct answer is: C. to accelerate economic progress and maintain economic stability.
ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising ten countries in Southeast Asia, which was formed on 8 August 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Brunei joined in 1984, Vietnam in 1995, Laos and Myanmar in 1997, and Cambodia in 1999.
The main purpose of ASEAN is to accelerate economic progress and promote regional peace and stability. The organization has achieved significant economic progress, with its member countries experiencing rapid economic growth and development. ASEAN has also played a key role in promoting peace and stability in Southeast Asia, through its efforts to resolve regional disputes and promote cooperation.
Option A is incorrect because ASEAN does not provide collective defense. The organization does not have a military alliance, and its member countries are not obligated to come to each other’s defense in the event of an attack.
Option B is incorrect because ASEAN does not have a mandate to maintain higher standards of living among member nations. The organization’s focus is on economic cooperation and development, and it does not have a specific mandate to improve the lives of its citizens.
Option D is incorrect because ASEAN is a real organization with a clear purpose. The organization was founded in 1967 and has since played a significant role in promoting economic progress and regional peace and stability in Southeast Asia.