PM Modi Departs for Thailand to Attend BIMSTEC Summit

Synopsis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a state visit to Thailand to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, aimed at enhancing bilateral relations with Bangkok. His engagements will also include discussions with Thai leadership and interactions with the Indian community, followed by a visit to Sri Lanka.

Key Takeaways

PM Modi's visit to Thailand aims to strengthen bilateral ties.
Participation in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit highlights India's role in regional cooperation.
Engagements with Thai leadership focus on historical ties and cultural connections.
Upcoming visit to Sri Lanka to review mutual objectives.
India's pivotal role in BIMSTEC underscores its influence in the region.

New Delhi, April 3 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on his journey to Thailand on Thursday for an official visit aimed at participating in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, which is also anticipated to enhance bilateral relations between New Delhi and Bangkok.

In his statement during departure, PM Modi remarked, "At the invitation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, I am setting off today for Thailand for an official visit to attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit."

"Over the last decade, BIMSTEC has evolved into a pivotal forum for fostering regional development, enhancing connectivity, and driving economic progress in the Bay of Bengal region. The geographical positioning of India’s North Eastern region places it at the core of BIMSTEC," he continued.

The Prime Minister expressed his eagerness to connect with BIMSTEC leaders, stating, "I am looking forward to meeting the leaders of the BIMSTEC nations and engaging in fruitful discussions aimed at further strengthening our collaboration with the welfare of our people in focus."

Regarding his official engagements in Thailand, PM Modi noted, "During my stay, I will engage with Prime Minister Shinawatra and the Thai leadership, united by a shared intent to elevate our long-standing historical connections, which are rooted in a strong foundation of common culture, philosophy, and spiritual thought."

Upon arriving in Bangkok, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to meet with the Indian diaspora.

As part of his multi-nation tour, PM Modi will proceed to Sri Lanka next.

"From Thailand, I will undertake a two-day visit to Sri Lanka from April 4-6. This follows the highly successful visit of President [Ranil] Wickremesinghe to India last December. We will have the chance to review the progress made towards our joint vision of 'Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future' and provide further guidance to achieve our mutual goals," he stated.

Expressing hope about his visits, the Prime Minister added, "I am optimistic that these trips will build upon the foundations of the past and aid in reinforcing our close ties for the benefit of our peoples and the broader region."

India plays a crucial role in the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), serving as a key catalyst for regional integration and cooperation. PM Modi's presence at the summit is expected to enhance India's leadership within this framework, affirming its commitment to fostering collaboration and progress.

BIMSTEC is a regional coalition comprising seven member nations in the Bay of Bengal region — five from South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka) and two from Southeast Asia (Myanmar and Thailand).

This grouping acts as a vital link between South Asia and Southeast Asia, with India being its largest and most influential member, shaping its agenda and promoting cooperation across various sectors.