A regional revival: The BIMSTEC summit provided a platform for bilateral meetings, Pg 6

BIMSTEC Summit Overview

• 6th BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok marked a revival after years of stasis, previously disrupted by COVID-19.

• BIMSTEC includes 7 countries bridging South and Southeast Asia.

• Formed as a post-SAARC alternative, especially after India-Pakistan tensions derailed SAARC’s relevance.

Key Outcomes

• Agreements on:

  • Chamber of Commerce

  • India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway (connectivity to NE and Pacific)

  • Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and customs framework under ‘Vision 2030’

• Disaster management collaboration is a top priority.

Bilateral Gains

• Modi–Yunus (Bangladesh): Reconciliation after 8 months of tensions, minority and border issues raised.

• Modi–K.P. Sharma Oli (Nepal): Revival of dialogue after visa row.

• Modi–Min Aung Hlaing (Myanmar): Restoration of democracy emphasized.

Geostrategic Importance

• BIMSTEC can be a regional bridge and counter China's influence via BRI.

• Challenges include implementation delays and repetition of SAARC’s inactive patterns.

Analysis & Way Forward

• BIMSTEC needs institutional reform, political commitment, and cohesive economic vision to become a robust multilateral bloc.

• India's leadership will be key in sustaining momentum and avoiding SAARC-like stagnation.

Mains Mock Question:

"Discuss the significance of the BIMSTEC summit in reviving regional cooperation in the Bay of Bengal region. What challenges must be addressed to ensure its sustainability?"