Context
India hosted the 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat, focusing on providing an informal platform to discuss cooperation and accelerate action in areas such as security, connectivity, trade, and investment within the Bay of Bengal.
- India aims to strengthen relationships with its eastern neighbors to counter China’s influence in the Bay of Bengal and establish itself as a key security partner in the region.
Strengthening Ties with Eastern Neighbors
- Bangladesh and Myanmar: Strengthened ties provide access to the sea for India’s landlocked northeastern regions.
- Myanmar and Thailand: Improved relations enhance India’s presence in the Indo-Pacific, leveraging their ASEAN membership.
- BIMSTEC Vision: Reflects India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East Policy, and SAGAR vision.
- Support Initiatives: India announced support for cancer research and e-visas for patients from all BIMSTEC states.
- Shared Ideas: Members discussed mapping mineral resources, promoting vertical integration in production, and cooperation in the Blue Economy.
Bilateral Achievements
- Myanmar: India raised concerns about the flow of displaced persons, narcotics, and arms across the border and urged for the return of unlawfully detained Indians.
- Bangladesh: Bangladesh requested India’s help to ensure the smooth supply of daily essentials and support for the Teesta project with a technical team.