Context
The 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit, held on April 4, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand, marked a significant step forward in fostering regional integration among its seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. This summit, held under the theme “Prosperous, Resilient, and Open BIMSTEC,” emphasized strengthening collaboration to address shared challenges and promote sustainable development.
Background of BIMSTEC
- Establishment: BIMSTEC was founded in 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration to bridge South Asia and Southeast Asia.
- Membership: It comprises seven nations from South and Southeast Asia.
- Key Focus Areas: Cooperation spans seven sectors such as trade, connectivity, climate change, food security, and technology.
Key Highlights of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit
Bangkok Vision 2030
The summit adopted the landmark Bangkok Vision 2030, a roadmap for achieving regional prosperity by focusing on:
- Economic integration.
- Resilience to global challenges.
- Collaboration in infrastructure development and technology.
This vision aligns with global goals like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and incorporates Thailand’s Bio-Circular-Green Economy Model.
Adoption of Key Frameworks
- 6th BIMSTEC Summit Declaration: Outlined leaders’ collective vision for regional cooperation.
- Rules of Procedure for BIMSTEC Mechanisms: Strengthened institutional frameworks to enhance operational efficiency.
- Report of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG): Provided actionable recommendations for BIMSTEC’s future direction.
Agreements Signed
- Maritime Transport Cooperation Agreement: Boosts cargo and passenger movement across the Bay of Bengal to enhance trade and tourism.
- MoUs with IORA and UNODC: Initiates strategic partnerships to address security and developmental challenges.
India’s Contributions at the Summit
India played a pivotal role by announcing several initiatives:
- Focused on cooperation in disaster management, sustainable maritime transport, traditional medicine, and agricultural research. BIMSTEC Centres of Excellence.
- The BODHI Program endeavors to develop skills through training and scholarships for professionals in member states.
- Cancer care capacity building: The initiative proposed strengthening the infrastructure for cancer care in the region.
- DPI-Digital Public Infrastructure: Suggested as a pilot to improve governance and service delivery.
Cultural and People-to-People Initiatives
India announced programs to enhance cultural ties:
- Hosting the first-ever BIMSTEC Games in 2027 to mark its 30th anniversary.
- Organizing events like the Traditional Music Festival and Young Leaders’ Summit.
Significance of the Summit
Economic Cooperation: The summit focused on unlocking regional economic potential by:
- Promoting trade facilitation and connectivity projects.
- Emphasizing sustainable development through innovative frameworks like the Bio-Circular-Green Economy Model.
Security Collaboration: Given rising geopolitical tensions, the summit prioritized:
- Tackling transnational crimes through partnerships with organizations like UNODC.
- Enhancing maritime security to ensure stability in the Bay of Bengal region.
Institutional Strengthening: The adoption of procedural rules complements the BIMSTEC Charter signed in 2022, solidifying its institutional framework.
Challenges Ahead
Despite its achievements, BIMSTEC faces several challenges:
- Geopolitical tensions among member states.
- Resource constraints in implementing ambitious projects.
- Balancing diverse developmental priorities across South Asia and Southeast Asia.
Conclusion
The 6th BIMSTEC Summit reinforced its role as a vital regional organization bridging South Asia and Southeast Asia. By adopting forward-looking frameworks like Bangkok Vision 2030 and fostering collaboration in key sectors such as trade, connectivity, security, and sustainable development, BIMSTEC is poised to emerge as a dynamic entity addressing shared challenges. However, sustained political will and resource mobilization will be crucial for realizing its ambitious goals.
Source: Zeenews
UPSC Mains Practice Question
Q. The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has gained renewed strategic significance in recent years. In light of the recent BIMSTEC Summit, examine the role of BIMSTEC in India’s Act East and Neighbourhood First policies. What challenges does BIMSTEC face in achieving regional integration?
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