Prime Minister Modi Participates in BIMSTEC Summit – Strengthening Regional Cooperation
The BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) summit, aimed at enhancing multi-sectoral cooperation among South and Southeast Asian countries, is being held today and tomorrow (Friday and Saturday) in Bangkok, Thailand. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation in this summit holds significant diplomatic importance.
What is BIMSTEC?
BIMSTEC is a regional organization that includes seven countries bordering the Bay of Bengal: India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand. This organization focuses on fostering regional integration and development through collaboration in areas like technology, trade, maritime security, energy, tourism, agriculture, disaster management, and more.
Key Focus Areas of the Summit
This year’s summit in Bangkok will see discussions on strengthening cooperation in:
- Maritime security
- Tourism development
- Space research and collaboration
- Counter-terrorism strategies
- Trade facilitation and economic integration
Member countries aim to strengthen their collective growth through shared goals and strategic partnerships in these sectors.
PM Modi’s Journey and Welcome in Thailand
Prime Minister Modi departed for Thailand on Thursday to attend the summit. Upon his arrival at Bangkok airport, he was warmly received by the Indian community in Thailand with a bouquet and a celebratory welcome. The Thai government also extended an official ceremonial welcome to the Prime Minister.
Bilateral Meetings and Strategic Agreements
PM Modi held a significant bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The discussions focused on key areas of mutual interest, leading to the signing of important agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and security. These developments are expected to strengthen India–Thailand relations substantially.
Diplomatic Dinner and Regional Interactions
The Thai government hosted a grand dinner for all attending leaders of the BIMSTEC Summit. During this event, PM Modi was seated next to Bangladesh’s interim President Mohammed Yunus. In light of recent tensions between India and Bangladesh over issues such as trade and water sharing, this moment drew attention and hinted at a possible thaw in bilateral relations.
The Bangkok Vision 2030 Declaration
A major highlight of the summit is the expected adoption of the Bangkok Vision 2030 Declaration. This visionary document is anticipated to outline BIMSTEC’s strategic goals for the coming decade, focusing on inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, technological transformation, regional security, and cross-border cooperation.
Cultural and Traditional Engagements
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi will pay a courtesy visit to Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida. Additionally, PM Modi and Thai PM Srettha are scheduled to visit Wat Pho, one of Thailand’s most renowned and spiritually significant temples. This visit reflects the cultural and religious connections shared between India and Thailand.
Return to India
After completing the two-day official visit and participating in key summit discussions, PM Modi is scheduled to return to New Delhi tonight (Friday). His visit is expected to enhance India’s regional presence and reinforce the country’s commitment to collaborative growth in the Bay of Bengal region.
