BIMSTEC commemorated its 28th Anniversary on Monday evening. Photo: BIMSTEC

DHAKA, June 17, 2025 (BSS) - BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Secretariat hosted a Reception to commemorate its 28th Anniversary on Monday evening. 

Planning adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud was present as the Chief Guest while Fisheries and Livestock adviser Farida Akhtar was also present. 

In his remarks Mahmud, emphasized the critical role of regional cooperation in securing lasting peace and prosperity in Bay of Bengal region. 

He lauded BIMSTEC's evolution into a unique platform, linking South and Southeast Asia, endeavoring to fulfill shared aspirations, and dealing with common challenges. 

Reaffirming Bangladesh's commitment to regional cooperation, he expressed confidence in BIMSTEC's potential to become a dynamic and result-oriented organization that delivers tangible benefits to its people.

In his welcome speech, BIMSTE Secretary General (SG) Indra Mani Pandey noted that BIMSTEC, since its inception, has made significant progress in forging regional cooperation in various sectors. 

Reflecting on BIMSTEC's 28 year journey, he highlighted the significant outcomes of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. 

He informed that, at the 6th Summit, BIMSTEC leaders, apart from their comprehensive Summit Declaration, adopted BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030, providing a roadmap for building a Prosperous, Resilient and Open BIMSTEC. 

In addition to signing and adoption of the Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation, the secretary general said, Memoranda of Understanding between BIMSTEC and its developmental partners, Indian Ocean Rim Association and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime were also signed.

As part of celebration, BIMSTEC member states showcased the cultural 'unity in diversity' of the Bay of Bengal region through presenting their dance performances, exhibition of their artifacts and other unique and symbolic items and their march past, with their representatives carrying their national flags in a symbolic display of unity and solidarity among member states.

Secretaries, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, Heads of International Organizations, members of Diplomatic Corps, Officials of the Government of Bangladesh, media personnel, representatives of think tanks, members of the BIMSTEC Secretariat. 

The BIMSTEC Secretariat, located in Dhaka, since September 2014, has been committed to support the member States in implementation of the decisions taken by our Leaders. 

The celebration reaffirmed in a unique way BIMSTEC's growing importance as a regional platform for realisation of the goals peace, prosperity and development in the Bay of Bengal region. It also reflected the commitment of the member States of BIMSTEC to its success.

BIMSTEC comprises seven countries of the Bay of Bengal region: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.