India leads from the front at sixth BIMSTEC summit: PM Modi proposes UPI integration for regional growth

India has once again made its strong presence felt at the sixth Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit held in Thailand. Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed to the member countries to connect with India's digital payment system UPI (Unified Payments Interface). He said that this initiative will help in taking regional trade, industry and tourism to new heights. Along with this, he also made many important suggestions like the establishment of the BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce, annual business summit and promotion of trade in local currencies.

At the beginning of his address, Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences on the loss of life and property in the devastating earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand on March 28. He also proposed the establishment of a BIMSTEC Center of Excellence in India to enhance cooperation in the field of disaster management, which can help in disaster preparedness, relief and rehabilitation work.

The Prime Minister described BIMSTEC as an important bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia. He said that this platform is emerging as an effective means for regional cooperation, connectivity and prosperity. Emphasizing the need to further expand the capabilities and sphere of influence of BIMSTEC, PM Modi appreciated the institutionalization of the Home Ministers' meeting and proposed to hold its first meeting in India.

He described BIMSTEC as an important platform in the fight against issues like cybercrime, terrorism, human and drug trafficking. Along with this, the Prime Minister expressed his desire to share India's digital infrastructure experience, so that member countries can also benefit.

Taking another important initiative, the Prime Minister proposed the establishment of a Sustainable Maritime Transport Center, calling the freedom, security and stability of the Indian Ocean region a priority. This center will promote cooperation in the field of policy making, research, innovation and maritime security.

Along with India, the leaders of Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Bhutan also participated in this conference. All the countries together adopted the 'Bangkok Vision 2030' to ensure prosperity, security and inclusiveness in the Bay of Bengal region.

India's role in the BIMSTEC group has been very decisive and leadership. Prime Minister Modi's Neighbourhood First Policy, Act East Policy, Indo-Pacific Vision and Ocean Policy have given new direction and momentum to this organization. To keep this organization active, India has appointed diplomat Indra Mani Pandey as Secretary General and has also made a financial contribution of US $ 1 million to the BIMSTEC Secretariat.

Under India's leadership, BIMSTEC's agenda has expanded significantly. The scope of the organization is divided into seven major areas, in which each member country has been given responsibility for one area:

• India - Security
• Bangladesh - Trade, Investment and Development
• Bhutan - Environment and Climate Change
• Myanmar - Agriculture and Food Security
• Nepal - People-to-People Relations
• Sri Lanka - Space, Science and Technology, Innovation
• Thailand - Connectivity

Through these initiatives and structures, India is not only playing a leadership role in BIMSTEC, but is also creating a strong foundation for stability, development and cooperation in the entire region.