PM Modi Lands in Thailand for BIMSTEC Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Thailand on Thursday for a two-day visit to participate in the 6th BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) Summit. The visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening regional ties and enhancing cooperation in trade, connectivity, and security.

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Upon his arrival at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok, Modi received a warm welcome, including a traditional Bhangra performance by the Sikh community. During his visit, he will hold bilateral talks with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, focusing on trade, cultural ties, and strategic partnerships between India and Thailand.

Key Highlights of the BIMSTEC Summit

On Thursday evening, Modi will join other BIMSTEC leaders from Thailand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, and Bhutan to oversee the signing of the Agreement on Maritime Cooperation. The agreement aims to boost regional trade, improve maritime security, and strengthen connectivity across the Bay of Bengal.

The summit will also provide Modi with an opportunity for discussions with key leaders, including Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, and Myanmar’s military junta leader Min Aung Hlaing. These talks will focus on regional security, economic growth, and connectivity initiatives.

Before departing for Thailand, Modi emphasized BIMSTEC’s role in promoting regional development, economic progress, and strategic cooperation. “BIMSTEC has emerged as a key platform for fostering growth and connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region over the past decade,” he stated.

Next Stop: Sri Lanka

After concluding his Thailand visit, Modi will travel to Sri Lanka, marking his first visit since the island nation elected its new president. His visit to Colombo is expected to focus on bilateral trade, infrastructure projects, and India’s ongoing developmental support in Sri Lanka.

The BIMSTEC summit and Modi’s diplomatic engagements highlight India’s growing role in shaping regional policies and enhancing cooperation with its neighbors in South and Southeast Asia.