Modi for Bimstec cooperation in anti-terror operations, natural disasters

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday called for greater cooperation among all seven BIMSTEC member states to combat terrorism and coordinate relief efforts during natural disasters in the region.

Addressing the fourth summit of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Modi said no country was unaffected by terrorism and noted that India was also dealing with challenges such as drug trafficking and transnational crime.

"India is ready to host a conference on these issues," he said.

Modi also stressed the need for stronger regional cooperation in dealing with natural disasters, noting that the BIMSTEC region, stretching across the Himalayas and the Bay of Bengal, frequently faces floods, cyclones and earthquakes.

"In this context, we should extend cooperation in humanitarian efforts for disaster relief. We have to cooperate and coordinate with each other," he said.

His remarks came as several parts of the region were dealing with disasters. Floods had affected Kerala and Nagaland in India, Myanmar was facing a crisis following a dam breach, while landslides had claimed several lives in Nepal.

Modi also invited leaders of all BIMSTEC member states to attend the International Buddhist Conclave scheduled to be held in India in August 2020.

The Prime Minister said India was committed to connecting its National Knowledge Network through digital links with neighbouring countries, including Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Bangladesh.

He also announced plans to establish a Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies at Nalanda University in Bihar to undertake research focused on the BIMSTEC region.

"We not only have diplomatic relations with all seven BIMSTEC countries, but are strongly connected by civilisation, history, art, language, cuisine and a shared culture," Modi said.