Bangladesh Reiterates Commitment to BIMSTEC Regional Cooperation

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam has reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation through BIMSTEC, identifying connectivity, trade, technology transfer and people-to-people exchanges as key pillars for achieving shared prosperity across the region.

Speaking at a reception in Dhaka on Monday evening marking the 29th anniversary of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Shama said Bangladesh, as the current Chair of the regional grouping, remains dedicated to promoting trust, inclusivity and collaboration among member states, according to a press release issued on Tuesday.

She underscored the importance of seamless multimodal connectivity, increased trade and investment, technology transfer, resilient supply chains and stronger people-to-people links in building an open, prosperous and interconnected Bay of Bengal region.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo and State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief M Iqbal Hossain also attended the event.

BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey noted that this year’s BIMSTEC Day carries special significance as the organisation marks its 29th anniversary and begins a year-long observance leading up to its 30th anniversary.

He said BIMSTEC has made considerable progress in advancing regional cooperation across a wide range of sectors and has developed the institutional framework required to operate as an effective regional organisation.

Referring to the BIMSTEC Charter and Vision 2030, Pandey said the organisation’s agenda now covers numerous priority areas supported by ministerial meetings, senior officials’ meetings, joint working groups, expert groups and other institutional mechanisms.

He added that BIMSTEC is expanding cooperation with observer states, international and regional organisations, and UN agencies to assist member countries in implementing collective decisions and advancing their development goals. Pandey also expressed appreciation to the government and people of Bangladesh for hosting the BIMSTEC Secretariat and extending continued support to the organisation.

Congratulating BIMSTEC and its member states on the occasion, Shama said regional cooperation remains a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s foreign policy. She described BIMSTEC as a vital bridge linking South and Southeast Asia and highlighted the role of cultural exchanges, education, tourism, sports diplomacy, youth engagement and professional interactions in fostering mutual understanding and friendship among the region’s peoples.

The state minister also called for strengthening BIMSTEC’s institutional foundations, fully operationalising the BIMSTEC Charter, and ensuring that sectoral cooperation mechanisms receive adequate resources and effective coordination.

The reception brought together senior government officials, ambassadors and high commissioners from BIMSTEC member states, representatives of international organisations, members of the diplomatic corps, media personnel, think tanks and other distinguished guests.

The celebration featured a vibrant display of the cultural diversity and heritage of BIMSTEC countries. Representatives of member states took part in a symbolic parade carrying national flags and wearing traditional attire, reflecting the spirit of friendship and solidarity within the BIMSTEC community.

Cultural performances and exhibitions showcasing artefacts, handicrafts, textiles and other symbols of national heritage highlighted the rich traditions and unique identities of the region. Traditional cuisines from all seven member countries were also presented at the event.

BIMSTEC Day was observed simultaneously across all member states, accompanied by congratulatory messages from heads of state, heads of government and foreign ministers.

BIMSTEC comprises seven Bay of Bengal nations—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Established through the Bangkok Declaration on June 6, 1997, BIMSTEC has evolved into a key platform for regional cooperation and an important bridge between South and Southeast Asia.