BIMSTEC Summit Highlights
Leaders Discuss Cross-Border Cooperation
The 6th BIMSTEC Summit, held in Bangkok from April 2-4, 2025, brought together leaders from seven member nations—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presided over the summit, marking the first in-person meeting of BIMSTEC leaders in seven years. Discussions focused on enhancing regional cooperation in areas such as disaster management, trade facilitation, and cross-border crime prevention.
Myanmar’s Participation
Rare Appearance by Junta Leader
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar made a rare international appearance at the summit. Despite facing global sanctions and criticism for his regime’s actions since the military coup in 2021, he engaged in bilateral talks with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Their discussions addressed issues like disaster prevention, combating transnational crime, and tackling air pollution.
India’s Role at the Summit
PM Modi’s Vision for Regional Growth
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed a 21-point action plan to deepen collaboration within BIMSTEC. Key initiatives included integrating India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with BIMSTEC countries to revolutionize cross-border transactions and establishing centers of excellence for disaster management and maritime transport. Modi also emphasized cultural exchange through events like a BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival.
Addressing Shared Challenges
Disaster Management and Economic Integration
The summit highlighted shared challenges such as natural disasters and economic inequality. Agreements were reached to enhance disaster resilience through regional cooperation. The adoption of “Bangkok Vision 2030” set a strategic roadmap for economic integration and human security across member nations.
Key Agreements Endorsed
Advancing Regional Collaboration
Six major agreements were signed during the summit, including maritime transport cooperation to boost trade efficiency and a joint statement addressing the impact of recent earthquakes in Myanmar and Thailand. These agreements aim to strengthen connectivity and foster collective prosperity among BIMSTEC nations.
Future Outlook
Transition to Bangladesh’s Leadership
The summit concluded with Thailand handing over BIMSTEC’s chairmanship to Bangladesh. This transition is expected to usher in a new era of collaboration under the “Bangkok Vision 2030,” focusing on sustainable development and regional solidarity.
