BIMSTEC Marks 29th Anniversary with Diplomatic Reception in Dhaka

Photo: CNI

Diplomatic Correspondent: The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) celebrated its 29th anniversary with a distinguished reception dinner hosted by Secretary General His Excellency Indra Mani Pandey and Mrs. Sushima Pandey. The event welcomed ambassadors, high commissioners, heads of missions, diplomats, and representatives from civil society, cultural organizations, think tanks, and the education sector.

Her Excellency Shama Obaid Islam, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, graced the occasion as the chief guest.

In his address, Secretary General Pandey expressed his gratitude to all attendees and extended special thanks to dignitaries including Honorable Ministers and officials from member states. Highlighting the historical significance of the anniversary, he noted the progress BIMSTEC has made since its establishment in 1997 in fostering regional cooperation between South and Southeast Asia. He emphasized BIMSTEC’s commitment to advancing regional security, sustainable development, and collaborative initiatives across multiple sectors, while maintaining a neutral stance on political issues.

Secretary General Pandey also underscored BIMSTEC’s partnerships with international organizations such as the UN agencies, ITU, FAO, and regional bodies, reflecting the organization’s role in promoting shared prosperity and supporting member states in achieving their development goals. He reaffirmed the Secretariat’s dedication to evolving BIMSTEC into a more effective, result-oriented, and responsive regional institution.

Concluding his speech, His Excellency invited the chief guest, State Minister Shama Obaid Islam, to address the gathering, highlighting Bangladesh’s continued support and collaboration with BIMSTEC initiatives.

The reception concluded with an atmosphere of camaraderie and renewed commitment to regional cooperation, setting the stage for the upcoming 30th anniversary celebrations.