Leadership Transition Marks a Strategic Shift

Bangladesh Takes Over BIMSTEC Chairmanship: Strengthening Regional Cooperation : On April 4, 2025, Bangladesh officially assumed the Chairmanship of BIMSTEC, marking a new phase in regional collaboration across South and Southeast Asia. The handover occurred at the Sixth BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, where Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus accepted the leadership baton from Thailand. As the new chair, Bangladesh will guide the organization’s agenda for the next two years.

BIMSTEC: A Regional Connector

BIMSTEC—the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation—is an intergovernmental grouping of seven countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Established in 1997, it serves as a platform to boost cooperation in areas like trade, technology, transport, energy, and cultural exchange, bridging South and Southeast Asia through the Bay of Bengal.

Highlights from the Bangkok Summit

Held in Bangkok, Thailand, the Sixth BIMSTEC Summit brought together top leaders from all member states. The summit was themed “Prosperous, Resilient, and Open BIMSTEC”, emphasizing unity and future preparedness. Two key outcome documents—the Bangkok Declaration and BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2025—set a roadmap for inclusive growth, sustainability, and economic integration.

Bangladesh’s Goals as Chair

Under Bangladesh’s leadership, BIMSTEC is expected to take a more action-driven and inclusive approach. Muhammad Yunus emphasized promoting shared benefits, regional connectivity, and tackling key concerns such as disaster preparedness, trade enhancement, and climate resilience. The focus will be on practical outcomes rather than just policy discussions.

How Chairmanship is Assigned

BIMSTEC assigns its chairmanship on a rotational basis, following the alphabetical order of member nations in English. With Thailand’s tenure now concluded, Bangladesh has assumed leadership. If the pattern continues, Bhutan is next in line to chair the organization.

Significance of BIMSTEC’s Evolution

BIMSTEC has gradually evolved from a diplomatic forum into a more functionally oriented alliance, addressing crucial regional issues like trade gaps, cross-border connectivity, and climate adaptation. As global tensions escalate, BIMSTEC offers a collaborative platform focused on peace, development, and regional stability.

Static GK Snapshot

Bangladesh Takes Over BIMSTEC Chairmanship: Strengthening Regional Cooperation :