AMN / KATHMANDU
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that BIMSTEC is the amalgamation of India’s “Neighborhood First” and “Look East” policy. Addressing the inaugural session of the 4th BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu today.
Mr. Modi said that summit is a very good opportunity to take concrete steps to fulfill aspirations and expectations of the people of BIMSTEC region. Mr. Modi said that Declaration of the current BIMSTEC Summit contains many important decisions which will strengthen organization and procedures of the BIMSTEC.
The Prime Minister stressed upon enhancing connectivity among the member states. He said that India is ready to host BIMSTEC startup conclave to enhance communication and connectivity among the entrepreneurs of the member states.
Mr. Modi also said that India’s North East region will have an important role to enhance connectivity with the BIMSTEC states.
The Prime Minister said that all member states have faced menace of terrorism, transnational crimes and drug trafficking. He said that to tackle these problems, member states have to unite and create a proper legal framework.
Mr. Modi proposed creation of a special forum for women parliamentarians to help in this process. The Prime Minister announced number of scholarships, fellowships and training courses for the people of BIMSTEC states.
The Prime Minister invited all BIMSTEC leaders as Guest of Honor at the international Buddhist Conclave to be hosted by India in August 2020. Earlier in his inaugural address, the Prime Minister of Nepal K.P.Sharma Oli said that success of BIMSTEC will depend on the honest and time-bound implementation of all the instruments signed by the member states.