Dhaka, Bangladesh – Bangladesh expressed its strong desire to witness a more dynamic and prosperous Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) with India playing a pivotal role as an active partner in the regional economic grouping. Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, in a media briefing following discussions with Secretary (East) of the Indian External Affairs Ministry, Shaurabh Kumar, highlighted the focus on making BIMSTEC vibrant and successful as they explored strategies for collaboration.
Acknowledging India’s significant commitment to BIMSTEC, Masud Bin Momen emphasized the need for Bangladesh, as the incoming chair of the forum, to articulate its vision for the organization. He stated, “India is giving utmost priority to BIMSTEC, and therefore, they are eager to learn about Bangladesh’s perspective as the new chair,” as reported PTI. The talks, which took place during Kumar’s official visit to Dhaka, centered around a wide range of issues related to BIMSTEC ahead of the upcoming ministerial retreat scheduled for July 17 in Bangkok.
Dhaka is poised to assume the chairmanship of the seven-nation grouping in December, coinciding with India’s appointment as its secretary-general following the BIMSTEC summit in Thailand on November 30. Foreign Minister Dr. AK Abdul Momen will attend the ministerial retreat next month to engage in discussions on various topics critical to the BIMSTEC agenda. Thailand will host the summit, marking a significant milestone in the regional organization’s journey.
Regarding the priorities within BIMSTEC, the foreign secretary underscored Bangladesh’s emphasis on the economic dimension, while India’s focus lies on security-related matters. However, both nations expressed their intent to synchronize their approaches through constructive dialogue. “There is ample room for collaboration between Bangladesh and India across different issues within the BIMSTEC framework,” remarked Masud Bin Momen.
During its chairmanship, Dhaka intends to place additional importance on the economic aspects of the regional forum. Bangladesh’s primary objective is to realize a multilateral free trade agreement within BIMSTEC. Simultaneously, India aims to facilitate the signing of conventions on various security issues, including extradition and money laundering, among BIMSTEC member countries. Enhancing connectivity among the participating states was another key topic of discussion, encompassing not only road networks but also transborder power gridlines.
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Responding to a query, Masud Bin Momen confirmed that the ministerial retreat would also address the potential inclusion of other regional countries as new members, dialogue partners, or observers if any state expresses interest in such collaboration.
When asked about any potential link between the Indian diplomat’s visit and the forthcoming high-level visit from the United States, the foreign secretary dismissed any connection, clarifying that the meeting had been scheduled long in advance.
Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry issued a press release stating that during the meeting, Foreign Secretary Masud emphasized Bangladesh’s commitment to deepening relations with all member states of BIMSTEC and advancing the organization’s objectives. In response, Kumar expressed New Delhi’s willingness to collaborate closely with Bangladesh in order to transform BIMSTEC into a highly effective and dynamic organization.
Both sides agreed to intensify their efforts in achieving concrete progress in areas such as trade and investment, connectivity, energy security, and climate change. These endeavors aim to ensure shared peace and prosperity throughout the Bay of Bengal region.
The meeting was attended by Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Kumar Verma, who added his presence to the discussions, further highlighting the significance of the dialogue between Bangladesh and India in advancing the goals of BIMSTEC. With shared determination and a renewed commitment to cooperation, both nations are poised to contribute to the growth and success of BIMSTEC, forging a brighter future for the Bay of Bengal region.
In conclusion, Bangladesh’s aspiration for a thriving BIMSTEC, with India as a key partner, signals a strong intent to bolster regional economic cooperation. The high-level talks between Bangladesh and India reaffirmed the importance of collaboration, focusing on areas such as trade, connectivity, and security within the BIMSTEC framework. As Dhaka prepares to assume the chairmanship of the organization, there is a shared commitment to advancing the objectives of BIMSTEC and ensuring its vibrancy and success. The upcoming ministerial retreat in Bangkok promises to be a crucial milestone in shaping the future of BIMSTEC and fostering greater regional integration for the collective benefit of all member states.
