Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent address at the BIMSTEC Ministerial meeting in Bangkok strikes a timely and powerful chord, one that resonates deeply with the changing currents of global geopolitics. His call for enhanced regional cooperation, increased self-reliance, and deeper South-South engagement reflects a clear-eyed understanding of today’s fractured world order.
In recent years, the global governance system has found itself increasingly under strain. The institutions that once anchored international peace, trade, and diplomacy are now grappling with economic realignments, regional wars, tariff battles, and growing multipolarity. From the ongoing war in Ukraine to trade tensions triggered by protectionist policies like the US tariffs under Donald Trump, the international order is in a state of churn. In this volatile landscape, Jaishankar’s message that “every region needs to look out for itself” is not just prudent — it is imperative.
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) — which brings together India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand — now has a unique opportunity to rise as a collective force. This bloc straddles both South and Southeast Asia, two of the most dynamic regions in the developing world. By uniting their efforts, BIMSTEC nations can not only shield themselves from the tremors of global instability but also chart a path of inclusive and sustainable growth.
Minister Jaishankar’s focus on regional trade, technology, connectivity, and climate action speaks directly to the challenges and opportunities ahead. He rightly pointed out that it is no longer sustainable for countries to remain dependent on faraway economic giants. Supply chain disruptions during the pandemic underscored this reality. By strengthening regional production and value chains, investing in digital infrastructure, and collaborating on climate mitigation strategies, BIMSTEC can insulate itself from the unpredictabilities of global markets and geopolitics.
Equally important is his emphasis on South-South Cooperation (SSC). Developing nations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America today face common trials — economic instability, energy insecurity, and the growing threat of climate change. But these shared burdens can also become the basis for shared solutions. India has already taken the lead in this arena, building strategic partnerships with ASEAN, Africa, and Latin America through technology sharing, trade agreements, and capacity-building programs.
BIMSTEC has the potential to become a model for this broader vision. Its structure, which is rooted in regional partnership rather than dominance, offers a promising alternative to traditional Western-led institutions that often operate with a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead of being passive recipients of aid or policy frameworks from the Global North, member nations can redefine global engagement on their own terms — collaborative, equitable, and grounded in mutual respect.
However, such a transformation demands more than rhetoric. Member states must commit to restructuring their economies to reflect regional realities, move away from excessive dependence on Western economies, and focus on local needs. That includes reforming education systems to build future-ready workforces, investing in innovation and green technologies, and fostering a culture of research and entrepreneurship.
This also means resolving internal disputes, streamlining cross-border regulations, and building institutional frameworks that enable smooth collaboration within the bloc. Only then can BIMSTEC realise its potential as a powerful regional force — one that not only secures its place in the global order but also helps reshape it in a more balanced and inclusive direction.
In a world where old alliances are faltering and new threats are emerging, the time has come for regional groupings like BIMSTEC to step forward. If harnessed correctly, this moment of global uncertainty could mark the beginning of a new era — one where the Global South, united in purpose and action, charts its own course toward progress and stability.
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