Doval Calls for Unified Regional Response
India's National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, urged the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) nations to enhance collaboration against complex and evolving security challenges. Speaking at the 5th Meeting of BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs in New Delhi, Doval underscored the necessity for collective action amidst a challenging global landscape.
"We are witnessing conflicts and geopolitical uncertainties," Doval stated, highlighting the "multi-domain security threats amplified by rapid technological advancement." He also noted that "disruptions in global supply chains have resulted in economic hardship for all our countries," stressing the urgent need for mutual discussion and decisive action.
Addressing Diverse Security Challenges
The NSA pointed to a range of threats confronting the region, including terrorism, transnational organized crime, and sophisticated cyber warfare. He also emphasized the importance of maritime security in safeguarding the region's vast coastal interests and trade routes. Doval affirmed that BIMSTEC members have already strengthened cooperation in these critical areas and are prepared to tackle new and emerging threats collectively.
Doval reiterated that BIMSTEC's long-standing priorities—regional security, connectivity, capacity building, and economic security—must continue to guide the grouping's collaborative efforts. These pillars are crucial for fostering a stable and prosperous environment for all member states.
BIMSTEC's Strategic Significance for India and the Region
Highlighting BIMSTEC's pivotal role, Doval described it as bringing together "the most significant and vibrant regions of the Indian Ocean." The grouping encompasses 1.7 billion people, representing approximately 22% of the world's population, with a combined GDP nearing US$5 trillion. These nations are united not only geographically by the Bay of Bengal but also through deep civilizational and cultural legacies.
For India, BIMSTEC is central to its regional foreign policy, embodying the "Neighbourhood First" approach, the "Act East" policy, and the "MAHASAGAR" vision, which promotes mutual and holistic advancement for security and growth across regions. Doval expressed confidence that BIMSTEC would continue its path towards a future of shared prosperity and resilience.
About BIMSTEC
Founded on June 6, 1997, through the Bangkok Declaration, BIMSTEC comprises seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. This unique grouping bridges South Asia and Southeast Asia, fostering technical and economic cooperation across multiple sectors.