Regional Alliance of Seven Sets Ambitious Goals for Trade and Connectivity Enhancement

A coalition of nations representing nearly 25% of the global population has come together to enhance their economic ties through improved trade and transportation networks.

during a recent gathering in Bangkok, leaders from India, Thailand, Myanmar, and other Bimstec members—short for the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic cooperation—unveiled the Bangkok Vision 2030. This initiative sets forth ambitious long-term objectives aimed at fostering economic collaboration and ensuring human security.

According to Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, this document will act as a guiding framework for future partnerships among member countries that collectively boast a GDP of $4.5 trillion.

Although discussions did not touch on the Trump management’s tariffs affecting major trading partners, Bimstec leaders emphasized unity amid growing geopolitical tensions and economic unpredictability, as noted by Thai Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura.

“as we gather with fellow BIMSTEC leaders in Bangkok,we reaffirm our dedication to enhancing cooperation across various sectors. Here’s hoping our collective efforts lead to meaningful improvements in people’s lives,” tweeted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 4th.

The summit marked a significant moment as it was the first face-to-face meeting among these leaders in seven years. Attendees included India’s Narendra Modi, Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus, Sri Lanka’s harini Amarasuriya, Nepal’s K.P. Sharma Oli, Bhutan’s Tshering Tobgay, and Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing.

The group finalized six agreements focused on maritime transport collaboration aimed at strengthening connectivity between South Asia and Southeast Asia while also addressing disaster management strategies. Additionally, they are still working towards finalizing a free trade agreement that remains pending.

This summit provided an unusual platform for Myanmar’s Min aung Hlaing—a controversial figure who took power following a coup against civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021—to engage with regional counterparts despite ongoing internal conflicts within his country. His presence drew criticism from human rights advocates due to ongoing humanitarian crises exacerbated by natural disasters that have claimed thousands of lives recently.