
Dhaka [Bangladesh], September 18 (ANI): A group of 10 Bangladeshi youth nominated by the Interim Government of Bangladesh participated in the BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit, hosted by the Government of India from September 9 to September 11 in Guwahati, Assam, the Indian High Commission said in a statement on Thursday.
This was the second edition of the event, following the first BIMSTEC Youth Summit held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, in February 2025, which also included a 10-member Bangladeshi delegation.
“The Summit underscored that the young leaders of the Bay of Bengal region should come together to usher in inclusivity and deeper regional cooperation. The event also spotlighted the strategic importance of Northeast India as a land bridge linking the Bay of Bengal community and advancing socio-economic integration,” the statement said.
Organised in partnership with the Bharat Scouts and Guides, the initiative is part of the 21-point action plan announced by the Prime Minister of India at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. The event was inaugurated by the Governor of Assam and brought together more than 80 young leaders from across all BIMSTEC member states.
In addition to representatives from the Bangladesh Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the delegation included ed-tech entrepreneurs, museum curators, and social and political activists.
“The Bangladeshi delegates returned with enhanced skills, innovative ideas, and strengthened networks that will contribute to regional development efforts. Their active participation showcased Bangladesh’s commitment to advancing the shared prosperity and connectivity goals of BIMSTEC,” the statement noted.
According to the Indian High Commission, the Summit aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East, and MAHASAGAR visions, reinforcing collective efforts to nurture the region’s emerging leaders who will shape policy, foster cooperation, and tackle future challenges. All expenses for the Bangladeshi participants were fully funded by the Government of India.
Over the three days, sessions explored themes such as resilient and inclusive leadership, entrepreneurship, design thinking, and socially responsive innovation. Cultural exchanges and country presentations further strengthened understanding and solidarity among BIMSTEC nations. (ANI)