The first BIMSTEC Youth Summit concluded in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, driving discussions on regional growth, entrepreneurship, technology, and sustainable development. With over 70 delegates from BIMSTEC countries—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—the summit highlighted opportunities for youth-led business and innovation in the region.
Inaugurated by Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, the three-day summit emphasized India’s “Neighbourhood First,” “Act East,” and SAGAR policies. Delegates toured Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), exploring advancements in finance and technology, and visited the historic Sabarmati Ashram.
The Ministry of External Affairs stressed the summit’s role in strengthening regional cooperation. “This initiative enhances youth participation and reaffirms India’s commitment to shared heritage,” it stated. In Guwahati, local entrepreneurs welcomed the summit’s emphasis on digital connectivity and regional collaboration. Business leaders believe Guwahati is well-positioned to leverage BIMSTEC ties for growth in exports, technology services, and cross-border investments, elevating its role in the Bay of Bengal region.
