BIMSTEC Summit

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is gaining prominence as India engages with its member countries amidst recent disasters. The summit in Bangkok serves as a platform to address ongoing challenges and revitalise the forum. A charter ratified in 2022 has solidified BIMSTEC’s framework. This summit aims to outline a vision for future cooperation and announce new initiatives, particularly in maritime connectivity.

BIMSTEC

BIMSTEC was established in 1997 to encourage regional cooperation among its members – India, Myanmar, Thailand, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The forum focuses on sectors like trade, technology, and security. The recent charter aims to enhance operational efficiency and establish a cohesive framework for collaboration.

Recent Earthquake in Myanmar

Myanmar has faced a devastating earthquake, prompting India to take a leading role in international relief efforts. This disaster marks the interconnectedness of BIMSTEC nations and the importance of solidarity in times of crisis. The response to this catastrophe will test the forum’s effectiveness in providing timely aid.

Challenges to Regional Cooperation

BIMSTEC has often been viewed as an alternative to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The failure of SAARC to engage Pakistan has contributed to this perception. Additionally, historical complexities and territorial disputes among member states pose challenges to regional integration.

Historical Context of the Bay of Bengal

The Bay of Bengal has a rich historical context shaped by colonialism and geopolitical changes. British colonial rule unified the region but also created divisions. Post-colonial developments, including the rise of Japan and the partition of Bengal, further complicated regional dynamics.

Geopolitical Significance

The Bay of Bengal is once again becoming a contested area due to China’s growing influence and India’s strategic initiatives. The rivalry between the United States and China is shifting focus back to the Indian Ocean, making regional cooperation crucial for stability.

Economic Integration Efforts

Economic policies in India and Myanmar have historically hindered regional trade. However, the economic reforms of the 1990s opened new avenues for integration. Despite these opportunities, structural constraints and bilateral tensions continue to impede progress.

India’s Strategic Approach

India must adopt a multi-faceted approach to revitalise BIMSTEC. This includes strengthening institutional frameworks and enhancing bilateral trade relations. Unilateral actions, such as Thailand’s visa policy for Indian travellers, can boost engagement.

Maritime Development Initiatives

Investing in maritime infrastructure is essential for regional connectivity. Developing the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as an economic hub and modernising port facilities will facilitate trade and boost security in the Bay of Bengal.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the role of BIMSTEC in regional cooperation compared to SAARC.
2. Discuss the historical impact of colonialism on the geopolitical dynamics of the Bay of Bengal.
3. Explain the significance of maritime connectivity for BIMSTEC member states. How can it enhance regional trade?
4. What are the key factors influencing India’s economic relations with its BIMSTEC neighbours? Discuss with examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the role of BIMSTEC in regional cooperation compared to SAARC.

1. BIMSTEC includes countries from both South Asia and Southeast Asia, enhancing its scope compared to SAARC.
2. SAARC has stalled due to Pakistan’s reluctance to cooperate with India, while BIMSTEC has no veto power, allowing for more collaborative efforts.
3. BIMSTEC focuses on diverse sectors such as trade, technology, and security, which broadens its impact beyond that of SAARC.
4. The establishment of a charter in 2022 has formalized BIMSTEC’s operational framework, promoting structured cooperation.
5. Recent initiatives, like maritime connectivity, showcase BIMSTEC’s proactive approach to address regional challenges, unlike SAARC’s stagnation.

2. Discuss the historical impact of colonialism on the geopolitical dynamics of the Bay of Bengal.

1. British colonial rule unified the Bay of Bengal region but also created divisions among its peoples and nations.
2. Colonialism established strategic control over trade routes, influencing post-colonial geopolitical alignments.
3. The decline of British power and the rise of Japan altered the balance of power in the region, complicating dynamics.
4. Post-colonial partition of Bengal deepened regional conflicts and rivalries, impacting cooperation efforts.
5. Historical grievances from colonial times continue to affect contemporary relations among BIMSTEC nations.

3. Explain the significance of maritime connectivity for BIMSTEC member states. How can it enhance regional trade?

1. Maritime connectivity facilitates easier and more efficient trade routes among member states, reducing transportation costs.
2. It enhances access to global markets, allowing BIMSTEC countries to leverage their strategic locations.
3. Improved maritime infrastructure can stimulate economic growth and attract foreign investment in the region.
4. Collaboration on maritime security ensures safe navigation and trade, encouraging trust among member states.
5. Joint initiatives in maritime connectivity can strengthen ties, leading to deeper economic integration and cooperation.

4. What are the key factors influencing India’s economic relations with its BIMSTEC neighbours? Discuss with examples.

1. Geographical proximity allows for easier trade and connectivity, as seen in India’s trade with Bangladesh and Myanmar.
2. Bilateral agreements, like those with Thailand on trade facilitation, enhance economic relations and mutual benefits.
3. Political stability and governance in BIMSTEC countries, such as the impact of Myanmar’s regime on India-Myanmar relations, play important role.
4. Economic reforms in India and Myanmar opened avenues for trade; however, structural constraints still pose challenges.
5. India’s economic strength, reaching $4 trillion, enables it to influence trade dynamics and engage in unilateral initiatives.