BIMSTEC Celebrates 28th Anniversary with Grand Reception in Dhaka

Photo: BIMSTEC Secretariat

Kathmandu: BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Secretariat hosted a reception on June 16, 2025, to commemorate its 28th anniversary. Established on June 6, 1997, with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration, BIMSTEC has now completed nearly three decades of fostering regional cooperation.

According to a press release issued by the BIMSTEC Secretariat, the celebration was graced by Wahiduddin Mahmud, Honourable Adviser to the Ministry of Planning of Bangladesh, as the Chief Guest. The event also saw the presence of other high-level dignitaries, including Farida Akhtar, Honourable Adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, secretaries from the Government of Bangladesh, ambassadors and high commissioners, heads of international organizations, members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, media personnel, think tank representatives, and members of the BIMSTEC Secretariat.

Welcoming the distinguished guests, BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey highlighted the organization’s significant progress since its inception. He noted that BIMSTEC has successfully established the institutional framework needed to function efficiently, including its Charter, core and sectoral mechanisms, Senior Officials Meetings, Ministerial Meetings, and Summits.

Reflecting on BIMSTEC’s 28-year journey, the Secretary General emphasized the major outcomes of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, including the adoption of the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030, which outlines a roadmap for a prosperous, resilient, and open BIMSTEC. Additionally, the summit witnessed the signing of the Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation and several MoUs with development partners, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

Chief Guest Mahmud underscored the importance of regional cooperation in achieving peace and prosperity in the Bay of Bengal region. He praised BIMSTEC for evolving into a unique platform linking South and Southeast Asia, committed to addressing shared aspirations and challenges. He also reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to BIMSTEC’s success and expressed confidence in the organization’s ability to deliver tangible benefits to its people.

The celebration featured vibrant cultural showcases from BIMSTEC member states, highlighting the region’s “unity in diversity.” Representatives proudly participated in a symbolic march-past carrying their national flags, along with cultural performances, artifact exhibitions, and displays of traditional items—reinforcing solidarity among the member nations.

The BIMSTEC Secretariat, located in Dhaka since September 2014, reiterated its dedication to supporting member states in implementing leaders’ decisions. The Secretary General expressed gratitude to the Government of Bangladesh for hosting and supporting the Secretariat, as well as to the embassies and high commissions of BIMSTEC member states in Dhaka for their continued cooperation, including in organizing the anniversary reception.