BANGKOK: The sixth BIMSTEC Summit, held in Bangkok, Thailand, concluded today with the adoption of the Bangkok Vision 2030 document.
The Summit endorsed a six-point proposal under the theme “Prosperity, Resilience, and Openness”, focusing on trade expansion, communication networks, and human security in the region.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra held a press conference to present the adopted proposals.
Key highlights include the formation of an action-oriented mechanism to enhance BIMSTEC’s effectiveness, the establishment of an Eminent Persons Group to chart its future direction, the signing of a maritime transport agreement, and a joint statement expressing support for earthquake-hit Myanmar and Thailand.
The proposal also emphasized strengthening people-to-people connectivity, with a focus on tourism and culture.
The Summit adopted the Summit Declaration, the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030—a roadmap for the region’s collective prosperity—and the BIMSTEC Maritime Transport Agreement. The agreement includes provisions for national treatment and assistance to vessels, crew, and cargo; mutual recognition of certificates and documents; the formation of a Joint Shipping Coordination Committee; and a dispute settlement mechanism.
Additionally, the Summit reviewed the report of the BIMSTEC Eminent Persons Group, tasked with recommending the future direction of the organization.
Prime Minister Shinawatra remarked that the official visit of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to Thailand on the eve of the Summit had added a new dimension to bilateral relations between the two countries.
Heads of government from all BIMSTEC member nations, including Prime Minister Oli, addressed the Summit.
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