What is BIMSTEC? 

• BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. 
• It is a regional organisation that connects South Asia and Southeast Asia. 
• It was established in 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration to promote economic and social development in the region.

Member Countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand 

Key Features of BIMSTEC 

• Acts as a bridge between Himalayan nations and the Bay of Bengal. 
• Focuses on areas like trade, technology, energy, security, and connectivity. 
• Seen as an alternative to SAARC for better regional cooperation. 

India’s Role in BIMSTEC 

• Leads in areas like trade, security, maritime cooperation, and climate action. 
• Supports the BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement to improve regional trade.