1. Economic Rationale
In theory, a development triangle will generate economic growth by making maximum use of the inherent but under-utilised economic potential in the proposed development area.
The driving force behind the creation of a development triangle is the recognition thatgreater benefitscan be obtained through sub-regional cooperation than would be possible through independent action. Development triangles enable states to overcome deficiencies in labour, technology, resources, land and infrastructure by an easier access to the required inputs available within the sub-region.
In addition to the individual interests of each state or sub-regional unit, development triangles can facilitate overall regional economic cooperation. In instances where region-wide integration is difficult to achieve, bilateral and sub-regional economic arrangements can be forerunners to broader cooperation.
Development triangles tend to consist of sub-national units that are located on the periphery of a country and, in many cases, are among the least developed territories of the country.
2. Political Rationale
Development triangles are also significant in consolidating peace and security in the region. This applies not only to at national level as governments try to cooperate to enable the development triangles to materialise, but it also brings local governments into more formalised relationship. By creating more linkages of interdependence among the local economies, force is less likely to be used in settling a dispute because of its disruptive impacts on economic activities.
Domestic security is also enhanced within development triangles because of the economic development that occurs along the frontiers. In many countries, the periphery areas are inhabited by ethnic minorities. The economic benefits from greater cross-border trade and investment will develop these fringe areas which are often neglected in national development strategies and by foreign investors. The generation of greater wealth for people in the periphery will help remove many of the economic sources of contention between people in these areas.
3. Social Rationale
The social rationale for development triangles is closely related to the political and economic justifications. Increased contact through cross-border economic activities will help promote mutual understanding of cultures, which in turn enhances border security. The social rationale also parallels the economic one in that the citizens involved in a development triangle will likely gain substantial improvements in their living standard and quality of life. Presumably, economic development will bring concomitant benefits such as better education, improved health services and a more elaborate social safety net.
The Development Triangle ensures the improvement of the well-being of the local people, especially women and children in the Development Triangle area and promotes the cooperation on combating trans-national crimes, such as cross border human trafficking, drug trade and smuggling.