PM Modi leaves for Thailand to attend BIMSTEC Summit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on an official visit to Thailand on Thursday to attend the 6th BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Summit. This significant diplomatic endeavor aims to strengthen ties between the member nations, foster economic cooperation, and promote regional integration.
In a statement, PM Modi expressed his enthusiasm for the summit, saying, “I look forward to meeting the leaders of BIMSTEC countries.” The prime minister’s trip to Thailand marks a critical moment in India’s diplomatic calendar, as he will also visit Sri Lanka from April 4-6, further solidifying India’s relations with the region.
The BIMSTEC Summit, held every two years, brings together leaders from seven member states, including India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The summit provides a platform for these nations to discuss pressing regional issues, share expertise, and explore opportunities for mutual benefit.
PM Modi’s participation in the summit assumes significance, given India’s growing influence in the region. As a key player in the BIMSTEC, India is committed to strengthening economic ties, promoting people-to-people exchanges, and enhancing regional cooperation. The summit is expected to focus on key areas such as trade, infrastructure development, and connectivity, among others.
During his visit, PM Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The two leaders are likely to discuss ways to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, and technology. Thailand is an important trade partner for India, and the two nations have been working to increase bilateral trade, which currently stands at around $10 billion.
The BIMSTEC Summit is also expected to witness the signing of several agreements and MoUs between member countries. These agreements will focus on areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure development, and tourism. The summit is seen as a step towards deepening regional integration, promoting economic growth, and improving the lives of people in the region.
PM Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka, which will take place after the BIMSTEC Summit, is also significant. India and Sri Lanka share a long history of cultural and economic ties, and PM Modi’s visit is expected to strengthen bilateral relations. The two nations have been working to boost trade and investment, and Sri Lanka has been a key partner for India in the region.
In recent years, India has been actively engaging with the BIMSTEC member states to promote regional cooperation and economic integration. The BIMSTEC region is home to over 1.5 billion people, which is roughly 20% of the global population. The region also has significant economic potential, with a combined GDP of over $2.5 trillion.
PM Modi’s visit to Thailand and Sri Lanka is a testament to India’s commitment to strengthening relations with the region. The prime minister’s diplomatic endeavors are expected to bear fruit in the form of increased economic cooperation, enhanced regional integration, and stronger ties between India and the BIMSTEC member states.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of globalization and economic uncertainty, the BIMSTEC Summit provides a platform for member states to come together and discuss ways to build a more equitable and sustainable future. PM Modi’s participation in the summit is a significant step towards realizing this vision, and his visit to Thailand and Sri Lanka is expected to have a lasting impact on the region.
