Meeting with SG of BIMSTEC: MOFA UM receiving SG of BIMSTEC

Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Tin Maung Swe, received Mr. Indra Mani Pandey, Secretary General of BIMSTEC at 4 PM on 22 June at the Ministry, Nay Pyi Taw. During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on cooperation sectors under BIMSTEC Framework especially on Myanmar’s active cooperation in areas of agriculture and food security, regional security, counter-terrorism, and connectivity.

Furthermore, they also discussed the importance of adhering to the fundamental principles of BIMSTEC in its relations with external partners, organizing the commemorative events and activities to mark the 30th Anniversary of BIMSTEC, which will fall on June 6, 2027, and ways to further enhance cooperation between Myanmar and BIMSTEC.

The visit marks the Secretary General’s second official visit to Myanmar. He previously paid an introductory visit to the country in July 2024 in connection with the 4th Meeting of the BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs (4th BNSCs). The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) was established in 1997 and comprises seven Member States, namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

The main aim of BIMSTEC is to promote economic cooperation among the Member States of the Bay of Bengal region. Out of the seven existing Sectors of BIMSTEC Cooperation, Myanmar is serving as the Lead Country for BIMSTEC “Agriculture and Food Security Sector”.