Purpose of the Balance of Payments

In international economics, the balance of payments (BOP) is a record of all financial transactions made between a country and the rest of the world over a specific time period. It includes two main accounts: the current account and the capital account. The current account measures the trade balance, net income from abroad, and net current transfers, while the capital account reflects net changes in ownership of national assets.

What is the main purpose of the balance of payments?