BIMSTEC

BIMSTEC is a unique seven-nation regional group bridging South and Southeast Asia, fostering cooperation around the Bay of Bengal through sectoral cooperation.

BIMSTEC as SAARC Alternative

• BIMSTEC bypasses Pakistan's obstructionism, enabling smoother regional integration and functional cooperation.
• It aligns with India’s 'Neighborhood First' and 'Act East' foreign policy pillars.
• The grouping bridges South Asia and ASEAN, representing 22% of global population.

Challenges: Bangladesh-Myanmar Tensions

• The Rohingya refugee crisis remains a significant bilateral friction point, stalling collective progress.
• Internal instability in Myanmar following the 2021 coup hinders cross-border connectivity projects.
• Institutional incapacity and slow implementation of the BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement persist.

India’s Lead ....