New Delhi: India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has called for Bimstec, a group of seven countries in the Indian Ocean, to take bold steps as global events shake up the world. He spoke at a meeting in Bangkok just after the US announced new tariffs that could lead to trade tensions.
During this gathering of foreign ministers from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, Jaishankar highlighted the importance of India, particularly its northeastern region, for improving transport and connectivity among member countries. The meeting was held in preparation for the Bimstec Summit scheduled for April 3-4.
Jaishankar pointed out that global uncertainty should inspire Bimstec members to work together more ambitiously. He mentioned that this new world order is becoming more focused on regional issues. He said, “What we achieve depends on our collaboration as developing nations.”
He noted that India, with its long coastline and borders with five member countries, has a special role in Bimstec. He emphasized that countries in the bloc have not yet fully tapped into their potential for trade, investment, and services. India strives to connect Bimstec nations and see its northeastern region as a hub for transportation and trade.
Jaishankar also urged members to strengthen their collaborations by focusing on important areas like transportation, digital infrastructure, and health security. He highlighted the need to address bigger challenges like climate change and terrorism, stressing that countries should work together for better short-term solutions.
Since India chose to focus on Bimstec after tensions with its neighbors, it has been using this group as a way to promote regional cooperation. A maritime cooperation agreement may be signed during the summit in Bangkok on April 4.
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