What Happened at the BIMSTEC Young Diplomats Interaction Programme in Delhi?
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Synopsis
The BIMSTEC Young Diplomats Interaction Programme commenced in New Delhi to foster cooperation among youth diplomats from the Bay of Bengal region. Led by leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the initiative aims to enrich diplomatic relations, exploring vital geopolitical issues while promoting collaborative growth in the region.
Key Takeaways
- 14 young diplomats from BIMSTEC nations are participating.
- The programme is aimed at enhancing regional cooperation.
- Inaugurated by Ambassador Raj Kumar Srivastava, focusing on new diplomatic approaches.
- The initiative aligns with PM Modi's vision of strengthening ties in the Bay of Bengal area.
- BIMSTEC represents a significant economic block with a combined GDP of USD five trillion.
New Delhi, Nov 19 (NationPress) The annual BIMSTEC Young Diplomats Interaction Programme was officially launched at the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS) in Delhi on Wednesday, featuring a cohort of 14 young diplomats from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka engaged in a week-long initiative.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Wednesday that this programme aims to provide participants with innovative perspectives on geopolitical and geoeconomic environments, alongside identifying key areas for collaboration in the region.
This MEA initiative seeks to bolster relations among young diplomats across the Bay of Bengal region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced this programme during the 6th BIMSTEC Summit held in Bangkok, emphasizing the importance of institutional and capacity-building endeavors in line with India’s 'Neighborhood First' and 'Act East' strategies, as stated in the announcement.
During the opening ceremony, SSIFS Dean, Ambassador Raj Kumar Srivastava, launched the second Special Course for Diplomats representing BIMSTEC countries. In his address, he elaborated on the essence of diplomacy, the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, and discussed the fundamental pillars of Indian Foreign Policy, including its Strategic Horizon and the Core Dimensions of its Resilience.
According to a statement shared on X, SSIFS conveyed that he also discussed the 4Ts (trade, technology, tourism, talent) of 'Diplomacy for Development' and highlighted various Government of India initiatives (ISA, CDRI, IBSA, GBA), while also covering BIMSTEC's origins, objectives, and aspirations as an organization.
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) comprises seven member states located around the Bay of Bengal, forming a unique connection between South Asia and South-East Asia. This includes five countries from South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka) and two from South-East Asia (Myanmar and Thailand). The BIMSTEC region is home to approximately 1.7 billion people, representing 22 percent of the global population, with a combined GDP of USD five trillion.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of initiatives like the BIMSTEC Young Diplomats Interaction Programme. Such gatherings not only enhance diplomatic ties among neighboring countries but also facilitate the exchange of innovative ideas and approaches crucial for a cooperative future in the region. The emphasis on youth engagement reflects a commitment to nurturing future leaders who are equipped to address the geopolitical challenges of tomorrow.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BIMSTEC Young Diplomats Interaction Programme?
The BIMSTEC Young Diplomats Interaction Programme is an annual initiative held in New Delhi, aimed at fostering collaboration among young diplomats from BIMSTEC member countries.
Who inaugurated the programme?
The programme was inaugurated by Ambassador Raj Kumar Srivastava, Dean of the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service.
What countries are represented in the programme?
The programme features young diplomats from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
What are the objectives of the programme?
The primary objectives are to expose young diplomats to new geopolitical perspectives and enhance cooperation in the region.
What is BIMSTEC?
BIMSTEC stands for the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, comprising seven member states from South and South-East Asia.
