Nepal Reaffirms Commitment to Stronger BIMSTEC Cooperation on 29th Anniversary

Prime Minister Balendra Shah has described the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) as a dynamic platform that reflects the region’s diversity, vitality, and shared potential.

In a message issued on the occasion of BIMSTEC’s 29th anniversary, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to strengthen connectivity in transport, trade, and digital networks to promote deeper regional economic integration. He also highlighted that BIMSTEC’s true strength lies in its people, calling for greater efforts to boost tourism, create opportunities for youth and entrepreneurs, and enhance resilience against climate change and natural disasters, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Reaffirming Nepal’s commitment to the regional grouping, PM Shah said Nepal is ready to work closely with member states toward building a more connected, resilient, and prosperous BIMSTEC region.

In a separate message, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal appreciated the steady progress made by BIMSTEC since its establishment in 1997 and underscored the importance of the BIMSTEC Charter in strengthening regional cooperation. He stressed the need to consolidate achievements, improve partnerships, and enhance implementation efficiency.

Khanal also reiterated Nepal’s readiness, as the lead country for the People-to-People Contact sector, to promote tourism, cultural exchange, and stronger people-to-people ties across the region.