Underlining that BIMSTEC is a model for inclusive development and collective security and not merely a regional organisation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday announced more than 20 initiatives — from the mechanism of Home Ministers on security to UPI connecting payment mechanisms, an energy centre to a chamber of commerce.
Speaking at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, Modi said, “BIMSTEC serves as a vital bridge between South and Southeast Asia, and is emerging as a powerful platform for advancing regional connectivity, cooperation and shared prosperity.”
“It is a matter of great satisfaction that the BIMSTEC Charter came into force last year. I am confident that the Bangkok Vision 2030, which we are adopting today, will further our collective commitment to building a prosperous, secure and inclusive Bay of Bengal region,” he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on Friday. (PTI)
Stating it embodies the spirit of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas’, he said “it stands as a testament to our shared commitments and the strength of our unity… I am confident that together, we will continue to strengthen the spirit of solidarity, cooperation and mutual trust, and take BIMSTEC to even greater heights.”
Modi, who conveyed his condolences over the loss of lives and property caused by the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand, said India stands in solidarity with those affected and wished a swift and full recovery to the injured.
India revived the BIMSTEC grouping in 2016 after the SAARC summit was cancelled. India boycotted the SAARC summit after the Pakistan-sponsored terror attack in Uri. Pakistan is not a member of the BIMSTEC grouping which has Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand — countries dependent on the Bay of Bengal.
On security cooperation, Modi said, “To further strengthen BIMSTEC, we must continue to expand its scope and enhance its institutional capacities. It is encouraging to note that the Home Ministers’ mechanism is being institutionalised. This forum can play a major role in the fight against cyber crime, cyber security threats, terrorism, drug trafficking and human trafficking. In this regard, I propose that India host the first meeting of this mechanism later this year.”
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Stating that for “regional development, physical connectivity must go hand in hand with digital and energy connectivity”, he said teams should accelerate efforts towards achieving electric grid interconnection across the region.
He also proposed establishing connectivity between India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and the payment systems of BIMSTEC member states. “Such integration would bring substantial benefits across trade, industry and tourism, enhancing economic activity at all levels,” he said.
On trade and business, he proposed the establishment of a BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, an annual BIMSTEC Business Summit will be organised to foster greater economic engagement.
“I would also suggest conducting a feasibility study to explore the potential for trade in local currencies within the BIMSTEC region,” he said.
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Emphasising that a “free, open, secure and safe Indian Ocean is our shared priority”, he proposed the establishment of a Sustainable Maritime Transport Centre.
“This centre will focus on capacity building, research, innovation and fostering greater coordination in maritime policy. It will also serve as a catalyst for enhancing our cooperation in maritime security across the region,” he said.
Recalling how India has always stood by its friends as a first responder in times of crisis, and was able to deliver timely relief to the people of Myanmar in the wake of the recent earthquake, he said: “While natural disasters may be unavoidable, our preparedness and ability to respond swiftly, must always remain unwavering.”
“I propose the establishment of a BIMSTEC Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management in India. This centre will facilitate cooperation in disaster preparedness, relief and rehabilitation efforts. Additionally, the fourth joint exercise among the BIMSTEC Disaster Management Authorities will be held in India later this year.”
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Stating that public health is a vital pillar, Modi announced that India will extend support for training and capacity building in cancer care across BIMSTEC countries. “In line with our holistic approach to health, a Centre of Excellence will also be established to promote research and dissemination of traditional medicine. Similarly, to benefit our farmers, we propose the establishment of another Centre of Excellence in India, focused on the exchange of knowledge and best practices, research collaboration and capacity building in the agriculture sector.”
On space cooperation, he proposed the establishment of a ground station for manpower training, the development and launch of nano-satellites and use of remote sensing data for the BIMSTEC countries.
On skilling the youth, he said, “We are launching the BODHI initiative, i.e. ‘BIMSTEC for Organized Development of Human Resource Infrastructure’ initiative. Under this programme, 300 young individuals from BIMSTEC member countries will receive training in India each year.”
He said scholarships will be offered to BIMSTEC students at India’s Forest Research Institute, and the scholarship scheme at Nalanda University will also be expanded. Additionally, an annual training programme will be organised for young diplomats from BIMSTEC member countries.
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To enhance cultural links, he said India will host the inaugural BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival later this year.
To foster greater exchange among youth, he said the BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit will be held later this year. “We will also launch the BIMSTEC Hackathon and the Young Professional Visitors Programme to encourage innovation and collaboration,” he said.
In the field of sports, he said India proposes to host the BIMSTEC Athletics Meet this year. “And looking ahead to 2027, on the occasion of BIMSTEC’s 30th anniversary, we are pleased to announce that India will host the inaugural BIMSTEC Games,” he said.
Modi also extended a warm welcome to Bangladesh as the incoming Chair of BIMSTEC.
