CURRENT CONTEXT: The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways inaugurated the 2nd BIMSTEC Ports Conclave.

 ABOUT BIMSTEC:

• Full Form: Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation
• Established: 1997 (Bangkok Declaration)
• Members (7): Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand
• Headquarters: Dhaka, Bangladesh
• Purpose: Regional cooperation in trade, transport, tourism, and connectivity

ABOUT PORTS CONCLAVE:

• Event: 2nd BIMSTEC Ports Conclave
• Focus:
• Boost port-led development
• Promote cooperation in blue economy
• Strengthen maritime and logistics connectivity

❖ Significance: Enhances regional integration between South and Southeast Asia