BIMSTEC security chiefs pledge joint action against terrorism, endorse maritime law enforcement principles

Meeting held in New Delhi was hosted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval

Updated - July 17, 2026 11:24 am IST - New Delhi

PTI

The national security chiefs of BIMSTEC nations on Thursday (July 16, 2026) pledged to jointly address regional security challenges, including terrorism and organised crime, while endorsing new guiding principles to streamline maritime law enforcement coordination.

The meeting, held in New Delhi, was hosted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

Member Nations

Besides India, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) comprises:

• Sri Lanka
• Thailand
• Bangladesh
• Myanmar
• Nepal
• Bhutan

Key Outcomes

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the national security advisers and heads of delegations discussed practical, result-oriented solutions to:

• Combat terrorism and organised crime
• Ensure security in the cyber, maritime, and energy domains
• Boost connectivity
• Facilitate efficient disaster management
• Tackle new and emerging threats

Maritime Guidelines Endorsed

The MEA confirmed that the meeting:

• Adopted guidelines for the maritime component of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, enabling BIMSTEC member states to undertake relief operations in the region expeditiously.
• Endorsed a set of guiding principles on the conduct of maritime law enforcement agencies during interactions at sea, outlining reference points to increase predictability and promote safety during maritime engagements.

Regional Cooperation Context

New Delhi has been advancing several initiatives within BIMSTEC to strengthen regional cooperation and partnership, including:

• Enhancing security
• Facilitating trade and investment
• Boosting connectivity
• Collaborating on food and energy security

Looking Ahead

"As BIMSTEC approaches its 30th anniversary next year, the National Security Advisers/Heads of Delegations reiterated their resolve to further enhance collaboration and knowledge-sharing towards strengthening regional security, building resilience, and enhancing institutional capacities to address diverse security threats," the MEA said.

During the meeting, the BIMSTEC Secretary General presented a comprehensive overview of the status of cooperation in the security sector and briefed member states on progress across a wide range of sectors.

"BIMSTEC bridges South Asia and Southeast Asia, two of the most significant and vibrant regions of the Indian Ocean," the MEA noted.

"Over the years, BIMSTEC has deepened cooperation in regional security, disaster management, transport and trade connectivity, technological issues, and people-to-people contacts," it added.

Published - July 17, 2026 11:22 am IST