Subject: International Relations

The emergence of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) as a significant regional grouping has sparked debates about its role vis-à-vis SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation). The recent adoption of BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030 demonstrates its evolving strategic importance in regional cooperation.

BIMSTEC as a Parallel Organization to SAARC

• BIMSTEC complements rather than parallels SAARC, focusing on economic integration and technical cooperation in the Bay of Bengal region.
• The organization serves as a vital bridge between South and Southeast Asia, aligning with India's 'Act East Policy' and 'Neighbourhood First' initiatives.
• Unlike SAARC's broader mandate, BIMSTEC maintains a clear economic focus, resulting in more effective regional cooperation.

Similarities between BIMSTEC and SAARC

• Both organizations share five common member states - India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.
• Focus on promoting regional connectivity and fostering cultural ties among member nations.
• Emphasis on disaster management and building regional resilience through collaborative frameworks.

Dissimilarities between BIMSTEC and SAARC

• Geographical Coverage: BIMSTEC connects South Asia with Southeast Asia, while SAARC is limited to South Asia.
• Operational Effectiveness: BIMSTEC has shown greater progress in regional cooperation, with six successful summits and concrete achievements.
• Membership Composition: BIMSTEC excludes Pakistan and Afghanistan, reducing geopolitical tensions that often hamper SAARC's functioning.

Indian Foreign Policy Objectives Realized through BIMSTEC

• Economic Integration: Enhanced trade relations, with India's trade showing an 8.3% annual increase reaching $215.3 billion in FY 2024.
• Strategic Interests: Serves as a platform for implementing India's 'Act East Policy' while maintaining regional influence.
• Cultural Diplomacy: Leverages shared historical and cultural heritage to strengthen regional bonds.
• Maritime Cooperation: Facilitates collaboration in the Bay of Bengal region, enhancing India's maritime security objectives.

BIMSTEC represents a more dynamic and effective platform for regional cooperation, exemplified by initiatives like the Bangkok Vision 2030 and Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs). Its success in fostering regional integration while avoiding the political deadlocks that plague SAARC makes it an invaluable instrument of Indian foreign policy.