The 6th BIMSTEC Summit was held in Bangkok, Thailand, bringing together leaders from the seven member countries to strengthen cooperation across the Bay of Bengal region. The summit focused on connectivity, maritime security, trade, and people-to-people relations.

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What is BIMSTEC?

BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is a regional organization comprising Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. It aims to promote regional integration and sustainable development among its member nations.

Key Highlights of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit:

1. Theme of the Summit:

The theme of this year’s summit was “BIMSTEC: Reinforcing Regional Integration for Shared Prosperity”. The theme reflected a strong commitment to deeper cooperation in areas like trade, connectivity, energy, disaster management, and security.

2. New BIMSTEC Charter Ratified:

All member countries ratified the BIMSTEC Charter, giving the organization a legal and institutional framework. This charter defines the vision, structure, and functioning of BIMSTEC, marking a major step in transforming it into a full-fledged regional grouping.

3. Focus on Transport and Digital Connectivity

Leaders emphasized the need for better transport infrastructure, including highways, railways, ports, and digital networks. India proposed a BIMSTEC Grid Interconnection Plan to enhance energy cooperation.

4. India’s Role and PM Modi’s Speech:

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who attended virtually, highlighted India’s commitment to BIMSTEC’s goals. He called for stronger cooperation in counter-terrorism, cyber security, climate resilience, and economic integration. He also emphasized the importance of millet cultivation, digital innovation, and regional trade.

5. Economic and Trade Cooperation:

The summit saw discussions on finalizing the BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement (FTA), aiming to boost intra-regional trade and economic ties. A decision was made to speed up negotiations and reduce trade barriers.

6. New BIMSTEC Centres Launched:

• Centre for Weather and Climate in Dhaka, Bangladesh
  
• BIMSTEC Technology Transfer Facility in Colombo, Sri Lanka
  
• Centre for Energy in India
  

These institutions will enhance cooperation in research, innovation, and sustainability.

7. Disaster Management & Public Health:

Leaders also emphasized collaborative efforts in disaster preparedness, especially cyclones and tsunamis, and agreed to strengthen public health systems and vaccine production capabilities.

Outcomes of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit:

• Adoption of the Bangkok Declaration 2025, outlining the future direction of BIMSTEC.
  
• Enhanced focus on regional peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.
  
• Agreement on regular ministerial meetings and track-1.5 dialogues.
  
• Decision to boost youth, tourism, and cultural exchanges among member states.
  

Why BIMSTEC Matters:

With around 1.7 billion people and a combined GDP of $4 trillion, the Bay of Bengal region has immense potential for growth and connectivity. BIMSTEC serves as a bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia, promoting economic growth, security, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

The 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok marked a major milestone in strengthening regional ties among the Bay of Bengal nations. With strong political will and collective efforts, BIMSTEC is set to play a vital role in shaping the future of this dynamic region.