Ajit Doval Calls for Decisive Regional Action as BIMSTEC Security Chiefs Meet in New Delhi

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval has emphasised the pressing need for stronger collaboration among Bay of Bengal nations to navigate an increasingly complex global security environment. Addressing the fifth BIMSTEC National Security Advisers’ Meeting hosted by India, Doval highlighted how conflicts, geopolitical uncertainties, technological disruptions, and supply chain challenges are affecting all member countries, urging collective and decisive responses for mutual benefit.

India's NSA Ajit Doval said there's an urgent need for us to collaborate, take decisive actions for our mutual benefit, | Hindustan Times

The Global Backdrop and Urgent Call for Cooperation

In his address, Doval painted a clear picture of the challenging times. He noted that the world is witnessing persistent conflicts and geopolitical tensions alongside multi-domain security threats intensified by rapid advancements in technology. These factors, combined with disruptions in global supply chains, have created economic hardships across the region.

Doval stressed that such circumstances demand immediate collaboration. “There’s an urgent need for us to collaborate, take decisive actions for our mutual benefit, and find solutions to the vexed problems that we are all facing,” he remarked, according to reports from the meeting.

BIMSTEC’s Strategic Importance and Shared Heritage

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation holds unique value as a bridge between South and Southeast Asia. Representing nearly 1.7 billion people — approximately 22 per cent of the global population — and boasting a combined GDP of around USD 5 trillion, BIMSTEC connects two of the world’s fastest-growing regions.

Doval reminded participants of the deeper bonds uniting member states. “We are united by the Bay of Bengal, not just geographically, but also through deep civilizational and cultural legacies that have evolved over a millennium of shared history,” he said. Building on these foundations, the grouping has made notable strides in security cooperation.

Progress in Security Domains and Future Priorities

Over the years, BIMSTEC has strengthened collaboration across several critical areas, including counter-terrorism, combating transnational organised crime, addressing cyber threats, and tackling maritime challenges. Doval acknowledged this progress while noting that the organisation is now better positioned to confront emerging threats together.

He called for sustained focus on core priorities such as regional security, connectivity, capacity building, and economic security. These areas, he said, should continue to shape the grouping’s collective efforts moving forward. For India, BIMSTEC embodies key foreign policy pillars, including the Neighbourhood First approach, the Act East Policy, and the broader vision of mutual and holistic advancement across regions.

Preparing for a Milestone Anniversary

As BIMSTEC approaches its 30th anniversary next year, Doval urged member countries to inject fresh energy into the organisation. He encouraged further expansion of collaborative potential and the strengthening of institutional capacities to enhance regional security and resilience. “I am certain that our vision and common aspirations, coupled with mutual trust, will continue to result in tangible outcomes,” he expressed with optimism.

The MGMM Outlook 

The discussions at the fifth BIMSTEC National Security Advisers’ Meeting reflect the growing recognition that regional security challenges can no longer be addressed by individual nations in isolation. As geopolitical tensions, cyber threats, maritime risks, and supply chain disruptions continue to reshape the global landscape, India’s emphasis on deeper coordination among Bay of Bengal countries highlights a practical and forward-looking approach. By encouraging decisive collective action, India is reinforcing BIMSTEC as an important platform for strengthening regional stability, resilience, and shared economic security.

The meeting also demonstrates India's continued commitment to building stronger partnerships with its neighbours through initiatives such as the Neighbourhood First Policy and Act East Policy. With BIMSTEC representing one of the world's most dynamic regions, enhanced cooperation in connectivity, counter-terrorism, capacity building, and economic development has the potential to create long-term benefits for all member nations. As the organisation approaches its 30th anniversary, renewed momentum and stronger institutional collaboration could further establish BIMSTEC as a key pillar of peace, prosperity, and strategic cooperation across the Bay of Bengal region.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, DD News)