In a compelling address at the 20th BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok, India External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored India’s unwavering commitment to fostering regional cooperation amid global uncertainties.
Jaishankar emphasized the imperative for BIMSTEC nations to collaboratively tackle pressing challenges such as terrorism, cyber security, human trafficking, and the illicit narcotics trade. He advocated for the establishment of robust frameworks to effectively address these multifaceted threats.
Highlighting the evolving global landscape, Jaishankar noted the shift towards a more regional and agenda-specific order. He asserted that the era of a few powers underwriting the international system has passed, emphasizing the need for developing nations to unite in overcoming shared challenges.
India’s strategic position was a focal point of his address. With a coastline stretching nearly 6,500 kilometers along the Bay of Bengal and shared borders with five BIMSTEC members, India is poised as a central connectivity hub. Jaishankar spotlighted the North-Eastern region’s emergence as a nexus of roads, railways, waterways, grids, and pipelines, facilitating seamless integration among member nations.
A landmark initiative in this connectivity drive is the Trilateral Highway, set to link India’s Northeast directly to the Pacific Ocean. Jaishankar described this project as a “veritable game-changer,” poised to revolutionize trade and people-to-people interactions across the region.
Reflecting on BIMSTEC’s 28-year journey, Jaishankar called for a reinvigorated and ambitious approach to regional collaboration. He emphasized the necessity of leveraging both historical ties and modern innovations to unlock the collective potential of member nations.
India’s proactive role in BIMSTEC aligns seamlessly with its “Act East” and “Neighbourhood First” policies, as well as the MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) outlook. This strategic alignment underscores India’s dedication to fostering a cohesive and prosperous Bay of Bengal community.
As the summit progresses, India’s vision of a united front against common challenges and the pursuit of shared prosperity stands as a beacon for regional solidarity and progress.
