PM Modi in Thailand for BIMSTEC Summit: Charting a Path for Regional Growth

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival in Thailand marks the beginning of the 6th BIMSTEC summit, where regional leaders will gather to address pressing issues of economic growth, infrastructure, and security. The summit offers a crucial opportunity for India and other member countries to chart a unified path toward addressing the shared challenges of the Bay of Bengal region.

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) continues to serve as a vital platform for cooperation among India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Bhutan, and Nepal. As the region increasingly becomes a focal point of geopolitical developments, PM Modi’s participation underlines India’s commitment to fostering collaborative growth and stability.

This year’s summit is set to focus on several key priorities, including boosting trade and investment within the region, enhancing infrastructure projects, and improving energy security. A central topic of discussion will be strengthening connectivity between member states through improved transportation and communication networks, crucial for both economic and cultural integration.

PM Modi is expected to outline India’s strategy for supporting regional growth through initiatives such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the development of digital and financial systems aimed at reducing regional disparities. These efforts are in line with India’s broader “Act East” policy, which prioritizes deeper engagement with Southeast Asia.

The summit will also highlight India’s leadership in regional security, particularly with regard to maritime safety, counter-terrorism efforts, and disaster management in the Bay of Bengal region. By focusing on shared challenges, the summit will seek to strengthen diplomatic ties and deepen regional cooperation for a more prosperous future.