The first-ever BIMSTEC Youth Summit has been inaugurated, marking a significant step towards strengthening regional cooperation among member countries.
The event, themed “Youth as a Bridge for Intra-BIMSTEC Exchange,” is focused on empowering young leaders to drive discussions on strategic issues affecting the region.
The summit, which began on February 7 and will run until February 11, aims to create a platform for young delegates to share insights on key areas such as entrepreneurship, technology, digital connectivity, and sustainable development.
Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the initiative aligns with India’s commitment to regional cooperation under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies.
Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, inaugurated the event in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, alongside Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Minister of State Raksha Khadse, and Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumder.
Their presence underscored the importance of youth-driven initiatives in shaping the future of BIMSTEC nations.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the summit is designed to foster dialogue among young leaders and facilitate knowledge exchange between BIMSTEC nations.
The idea for the summit was first introduced during the fourth BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu in 2018, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the initiative to bring young minds together on a common platform.
The summit features 70 youth delegates, with each BIMSTEC member nation sending ten representatives who have demonstrated expertise in various fields. These discussions are expected to generate meaningful outcomes that will contribute to regional development and cooperation.
One of the key aspects of the summit is its focus on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By leveraging the energy and innovation of young leaders, India aims to accelerate progress towards achieving the 2030 SDG targets.
The discussions will explore ways to integrate sustainable solutions across BIMSTEC nations, strengthening partnerships for a more inclusive and resilient future.
The BIMSTEC Youth Summit serves as an opportunity for young leaders to engage in dialogue beyond national boundaries and foster a spirit of collaboration.
It highlights the growing role of youth in policy-making, entrepreneurship, and technological advancements, ensuring that the next generation is actively contributing to regional growth.
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