India's Strategic Alignment with BIMSTEC: Jaishankar Highlights Bay of Bengal Initiatives

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized India's strategic commitment to BIMSTEC, underscoring its role within broader policies such as the 'Neighbourhood First,' 'Act East,' and 'SAGAR' visions. During the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers' Retreat in New Delhi, he stressed the importance of regional cooperation for economic growth and development.

S. Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, stressed India's strong alignment with the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). He pinpointed its critical role within India's larger geopolitical strategies, including the 'Neighbourhood First,' 'Act East Policy,' and 'SAGAR' vision.

Speaking at the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers' Retreat in New Delhi, Jaishankar said, 'For India, BIMSTEC represents the intersection of its 'Neighbourhood First' outlook, the 'Act East Policy' and the 'SAGAR' vision.' He emphasized the necessity for rapid and effective transformation in the Bay of Bengal region, urging for new energies and commitments.

Jaishankar also highlighted the recent enactment of the BIMSTEC Charter and the importance of finding solutions within the group's framework amid global and regional developments. The retreat provided a platform for in-depth discussions on connectivity, trade, health, and digital infrastructure. Expressing optimism, Jaishankar underscored the retreat's role in paving the way for stronger outcomes at the upcoming Summit.

(With inputs from agencies.)