TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
THE CONTEXT: The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has entered a significant new phase with the adoption of its first charter, granting the organization a ‘legal personality.’
EXPLANATION:
- This milestone was announced by the Ministry of External Affairs on May 20, 2024.
- The charter, adopted during the 5th BIMSTEC summit, opens the door for new members and observers, allowing the grouping to engage in structured diplomatic dialogue with other international entities.
Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)
- BIMSTEC was established in 1997.
- It comprises of seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Thailand, Myanmar, and India.
- For years, the organization struggled to achieve a consensus on a common charter that would encapsulate its vision and objectives.
- The pandemic prompted a virtual summit on March 30, 2022, chaired by Sri Lanka, where leaders finally adopted the charter.
- Thailand subsequently took over the chairmanship from Sri Lanka.
- The charter’s ratification by Nepal’s parliament last month was the final step needed for it to come into force.
Significance of the Charter
- The BIMSTEC Charter provides the legal and institutional framework necessary for meaningful cooperation and deeper integration in the Bay of Bengal region.
- This development affirms India’s commitment to fostering a prosperous, peaceful, and sustainable neighborhood.
- External Affairs Minister emphasized that BIMSTEC embodies India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies, reflecting shared history, culture, and mutual respect among member states.
- With its newly acquired legal personality, BIMSTEC can now engage in structured diplomatic dialogue with other groupings and countries.
- This ability to form official partnerships and cooperative agreements marks a significant step forward for the organization, enabling it to play a more active role in regional and global affairs.
SAARC vs. BIMSTEC: A Shift in Focus
- BIMSTEC’s rise to prominence comes in the context of the stagnation of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
- The last SAARC summit was held in Kathmandu in November 2014, and the planned 2016 summit in Islamabad was derailed following terror attacks in India, which New Delhi attributed to Pakistan-based elements.
- Since then, India has increasingly shifted its focus from SAARC to BIMSTEC, which aligns better with its ‘Act East’ policy.
- However, Nepal’s Foreign Minister, during a parliamentary debate, clarified that Nepal does not view BIMSTEC as a replacement for SAARC.
- He emphasized Nepal’s commitment to reviving the SAARC process, underlining the distinction and complementary roles of both organizations.
Challenges and Opportunities
- Despite its progress, BIMSTEC has faced significant challenges, including tensions between Bangladesh and Myanmar.
- The displacement of over a million Rohingya refugees into Bangladesh since 2017 and the influx of refugees into Thailand following Myanmar’s February 2021 coup have strained relations.
- These issues underscore the need for effective regional cooperation and conflict resolution mechanisms within BIMSTEC.
Broadening Cooperation
- The BIMSTEC Charter underscores the member states’ shared commitment to enhancing regional cooperation in critical sectors such as security, connectivity, trade, agriculture, environment, science and technology, and people-to-people contact.
- This holistic approach aims to foster sustainable development and stability in the region.
Future Prospects
- The entry into force of the BIMSTEC Charter is a historic moment that lays the groundwork for a more integrated and cooperative Bay of Bengal region.
- The organization’s newfound ability to engage in structured diplomatic dialogues with other international entities will likely lead to new opportunities for economic and technical collaboration.
- As BIMSTEC opens its doors to new members and observers, it has the potential to become a more inclusive and influential regional bloc.
