BIMSTEC Charter comes into force

The Government yesterday acknowledged the entry into force of the BIMSTEC Charter on 20 May, marking a historic milestone in the 27-year journey of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

The BIMSTEC Charter, which establishes the legal and institutional framework for the organisation is a significant development which is expected to strengthen regional cooperation and integration within the Bay of Bengal region, providing new opportunities for development and collaboration among the BIMSTEC member states. 

With the entry into force of the Charter, Sri Lanka is confident that all member states will prioritise the implementation of agreed measures to strengthen regional cooperation. The Government also encourages the public and stakeholders to recognise the significance of this opportunity for enhancing connectivity, economic growth, and partnership within the Bay of Bengal region.