BIMSTEC has made significant strides in formalising its institutional framework and expanding areas of cooperation in recent years
India participated in the 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials' Meeting (SOM) hosted virtually by Thailand on December 19, 2024. The meeting provided a platform to review progress since the last SOM in March 2023 and deliberate on key areas of regional cooperation.

India was represented by Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Jaideep Mazumdar.

The officials engaged in comprehensive discussions focusing on several priority areas:

Sustainable Development: Collaborative efforts were emphasized to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the BIMSTEC region. Member states shared best practices and strategies to address challenges such as poverty alleviation, healthcare, and education.

Connectivity: Recognizing the importance of regional connectivity, the meeting reviewed the implementation of the BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity. This plan aims to improve infrastructure links, including roadways, railways, and maritime routes, to facilitate trade and people-to-people exchanges among member countries.

Security Cooperation: Strengthening collaboration in counter-terrorism, disaster management, and maritime security was a key focus to ensure peace and stability in the region. Efforts to combat transnational crimes and enhance cybersecurity were also prioritized.

People-to-People Exchanges: The meeting underscored the significance of cultural and educational exchanges in fostering mutual understanding and regional solidarity. Initiatives to promote tourism, academic collaborations, and youth engagement were discussed.

Several critical documents were finalized during the meeting, including:

Plans of Action for Cooperation in Specific Areas: Detailed action plans for collaborative initiatives in sectors such as trade, technology, energy, and agriculture were agreed upon to drive regional development.

New Mechanisms of Cooperation: The establishment of specialized working groups and expert committees was approved to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the region effectively.

Cooperation with External Partners: Frameworks for engaging with external partners and international organizations were discussed to leverage additional resources and expertise for regional projects.

Preparations for the 6th BIMSTEC Summit
The meeting also focused on preparations for the forthcoming 6th BIMSTEC Summit. Discussions included finalising the agenda, expected outcomes, and logistical arrangements to ensure the summit’s success. The summit is anticipated to further strengthen regional cooperation and set the future direction for BIMSTEC initiatives.

The Indian delegation reiterated the country’s unwavering commitment to BIMSTEC and its vision for a robust, vibrant, and prosperous region. Secretary (East) Mazumdar emphasised India’s dedication to collaborative efforts that promote economic growth, sustainable development, and regional integration.

BIMSTEC has made significant strides in formalising its institutional framework and expanding areas of cooperation in recent years:

BIMSTEC Charter: The adoption of the BIMSTEC Charter has provided the organisation with a legal identity, enabling it to engage more effectively with external partners and international organizations.

Sectoral Cooperation: Member states have been designated as lead countries for specific sectors to streamline efforts and enhance efficiency. For instance, India leads in security, including counter-terrorism and transnational crime, disaster management, and energy.

Trade Negotiations: Efforts are underway to finalise the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area Framework Agreement to boost intra-regional trade and investment. Member countries are working towards resolving pending issues to facilitate smoother economic integration.

India’s active role in BIMSTEC aligns with its strategic policies, including ‘Neighbourhood First,’ ‘Vision SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region), and ‘Act East.

During the SOM, the Indian delegation highlighted recent initiatives such as the BIMSTEC Centres of Excellence, which focus on capacity building, innovation, and research. India’s contributions to sectors like health, food security, and energy were also emphasized.

As BIMSTEC approaches its 6th Summit, the organisation is poised to play a pivotal role in regional development. With a focus on enhancing connectivity, security, and economic cooperation, BIMSTEC aims to address common challenges and harness collective strengths for the benefit of its member states.

India’s active participation and leadership in various sectors underscore its commitment to the BIMSTEC vision. 

The progress achieved at the SOM, coupled with India’s strategic engagement, sets a strong foundation for the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. With initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable development, BIMSTEC is poised to become a cornerstone of regional cooperation in South and Southeast Asia.

The 24th BIMSTEC Senior Officials’ Meeting has reinforced the organisation’s commitment to regional integration and development. India’s proactive role in BIMSTEC exemplifies its dedication to fostering collaboration, enhancing connectivity, and addressing shared challenges. As preparations for the 6th Summit progress, BIMSTEC stands as a beacon of regional solidarity, paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for its member nations.