In a significant development for regional cooperation in South Asia and Southeast Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is confirmed to visit Thailand to participate in the BIMSTEC summit scheduled for April 2-4, 2025. The summit, set to convene in Bangkok, will bring together leaders from the member countries of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
The 2025 summit aims to set a transformative agenda for the region with its focus on the ‘BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030’ and the ‘BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement’. These initiatives are designed to enhance economic integration and cooperation among the member states, which include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Prime Minister Modi’s participation is particularly significant as it underscores India’s commitment to strengthening regional ties and enhancing economic and technical cooperation in the Bay of Bengal region. Official sources confirm that alongside the summit, there may be several high-profile bilateral meetings. A key highlight could be a potential discussion with Bangladesh’s chief advisor, Muhammad Yunus, an influential figure in international economic development and finance.
The BIMSTEC summit is more than just a diplomatic rendezvous; it is a strategic platform for discussing issues ranging from trade to technology transfer among the participating nations. The ‘BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement’ is anticipated to be a major step towards liberalizing trade practices and enhancing economic growth in the region. Moreover, the ‘BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030’ is set to outline the roadmap for sustainable development and deeper integration over the next decade.
As Bangkok gears up to host this crucial summit, all eyes will be on the outcomes and declarations that will emerge from the discussions. The participation of leaders like Prime Minister Modi not only adds gravitas to the summit but also represents a hopeful vision for regional collaboration. Stay tuned for more updates as we cover the BIMSTEC summit and its impact on regional dynamics in South and Southeast Asia.
