Bangkok/Dhaka, Apr 4 (UNI) Bangladesh today assumed the chairmanship of the BIMSTEC regional grouping for the next two years, and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing regional cooperation and development.
Upon receiving the Chairmanship from Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Bangladesh Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus made a statement of acceptance, underscoring an inclusive and action-oriented BIMSTEC.
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) comprises seven countries of the Bay of Bengal region – Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
The chairmanship of BIMSTEC, which has emerged as a “significant forum” for promoting regional development, connectivity and economic progress in the Bay of Bengal region, rotates according to the alphabetical order of the English names of the Member States, the Business Standard Bangladesh reported.
The theme of the Sixth summit — held three years after the Fifth summit (virtual mode, Colombo, 30 March 2022) — was ‘Prosperous, Resilient and Open BIMSTEC’.
At the beginning of the Bangkok Summit, leaders of the seven nations posed for a group photo which was followed by a welcome address by the BIMSTEC chair, Prime Minister of Thailand Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
A one-minute silence was observed for the victims of the March 28 earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand.
After the adoption of the agenda, leaders of the BIMSTEC, including Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus made their statements.
Leaders (Heads of Government) of BIMSTEC Member States unanimously adopted the Bangkok Declaration and the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision, a strategic roadmap aimed at guiding the organisation towards sustainable development and deeper economic integration.
