The 6th Summit in Bangkok convened leaders from the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), an organization that promotes collaboration among its member states across various sectors
In a heartfelt address at the 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit, Bhutan’s Prime Minister (PM) Dasho Tshering Tobgay reaffirmed his nation’s commitment to regional collaboration while extending condolences to Myanmar and Thailand following a recent devastating earthquake.
Reflecting on nearly three decades of BIMSTEC’s existence, Dasho Tshering Tobgay emphasized the alliance’s untapped potential and called for decisive actions to transform BIMSTEC into a results-driven platform. “We must not only recognize our potential but also act upon it,” he asserted, underlining the necessity of economic integration, environmental resilience, and enhanced connectivity—both physical and digital.
Bhutan, he noted, is eager to contribute to regional digital advancements through its National Digital Identity (NDI) and Intelligent Bhutan initiatives while also learning from fellow member states. Additionally, the PM introduced Bhutan’s transformative vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), a sustainability-focused initiative inspired by His Majesty’s leadership and Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable development.
Key Outcomes of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit
The Summit held on April 4, 2025, reviewed progress across BIMSTEC’s seven key areas of cooperation: trade and investment, environment and climate change, security, agriculture and food security, people-to-people contact, science and technology, and connectivity. Leaders approved six pivotal outcome documents.
- BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030 – The first strategic vision of its kind, aiming to create a Prosperous, Resilient, and Open BIMSTEC (PRO BIMSTEC) by 2030, with a focus on economic integration, connectivity, and human security.
- 6th BIMSTEC Summit Declaration – Reaffirming member states’ commitment to BIMSTEC and the Bangkok Vision 2030 goals.
- Rules of Procedure for BIMSTEC Mechanisms – Establishing a systematic and rules-based approach to enhance efficiency and consistency in BIMSTEC operations.
- Report of the BIMSTEC Eminent Persons’ Group – Outlining key recommendations for BIMSTEC’s future direction in alignment with the Bangkok Vision 2030.
- Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation – Aiming to boost maritime connectivity between South and Southeast Asia, improving logistical efficiency and reducing trade costs.
- BIMSTEC Leaders’ Joint Statement on the Earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand – Expressing solidarity and support for disaster-affected nations, with an emphasis on strengthening regional disaster management mechanisms.
Thailand’s Leadership and Regional Commitment
Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in her concluding statement on April 4 highlighted the theme of Thailand’s BIMSTEC Chairmanship: “Prosperous, Resilient, and Open BIMSTEC.”
She emphasized the need for fortified regional cooperation, particularly in disaster preparedness and recovery, following the recent earthquake.
“The outcomes of this Summit will deliver tangible benefits to the Thai people,” she stated, noting that the Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation will reduce shipping costs, enhance supply chain efficiency, and boost Thailand’s exports. Additionally, increased tourism and cultural cooperation will create new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
As the Lead Country on Connectivity, Thailand underscored the importance of completing the India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway and implementing the Bangkok Vision 2030, a framework designed to guide BIMSTEC’s long-term agenda.
The summit also addressed administrative and financial matters, reviewed reports from various BIMSTEC Centres, and reaffirmed member states’ unity in support of Myanmar and Thailand.
On April 2, 2025, Thailand hosted the 25th BIMSTEC Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) in Bangkok, chaired by Mrs. Eksiri Pintaruchi, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, with Ms. Rujikorn Saengchantr, Director-General of the Department of International Economic Affairs, representing Thailand.
Sangay Rabten from Thimphu
