India hosted the BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit in Guwahati from September 9-11, 2025, uniting young leaders to foster regional cooperation and development.

Introduction

From September 9 to 11, 2025, India welcomed over 80 young leaders from the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) member countries to Guwahati. This landmark event spotlighted the dynamic role of youth as drivers of regional cooperation and growth, setting the tone for a collaborative and prosperous future across South and Southeast Asia.

Context and Background

BIMSTEC, a strategic regional bloc consisting of seven countries—India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan, and Nepal—anchors its vision on creating a vibrant economic and socio-cultural community around the Bay of Bengal. Since its inception in 1997 and subsequent expansions, BIMSTEC represents a contiguous zone connecting South and Southeast Asia, home to nearly 1.8 billion people and a combined GDP of $4.5 trillion.

The summit in Guwahati was part of a broader 21-point action plan announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 6th BIMSTEC Summit aimed at enhancing regional integration. India’s Neighborhood First, Act East, and MAHASAGAR initiatives align closely with this effort, emphasizing the transformative potential of young leaders in shaping policy and addressing contemporary challenges.

Main Developments at the Summit

The three-day summit was inaugurated by Assam Governor Laxman Prasad Acharya and organized in collaboration with Bharat Scouts & Guides. Participants represented a broad cross-section of sectors—including politics, business, socio-cultural groups, and civil society—from all BIMSTEC nations.

Key thematic areas included entrepreneurship, design thinking, sustainable solutions, and cross-cultural collaboration. Interactive sessions cultivated innovative social business prototypes, improved communication skills, and fostered networks of trust that are crucial for future regional cooperation.

An important highlight was the emphasis on northeast India’s strategic role as the land bridge in the Bay of Bengal socio-economic corridor, underscoring its importance in connecting member countries and boosting economic growth.

Expert Insight and Public Sentiment

Experts recognize the summit as a timely initiative for strengthening regional synergy. Analysts highlight how empowering youth through such platforms can enhance social cohesion and economic innovation across BIMSTEC countries. The networking and skill-building opportunities are expected to generate a ripple effect in policymaking and grassroots development simultaneously.

Public reaction within India’s northeast has been particularly positive, framing the summit as a milestone for regional prominence and connectivity that could bolster local economies and cultural exchanges.

Impact and Implications

Looking ahead, the summit aims to cultivate a cadre of young leaders equipped to navigate geopolitical complexities and drive inclusive growth. These emerging leaders are expected to champion collaborative policies that align with India’s strategic visions while addressing pressing issues like climate change, trade facilitation, and sustainable development.

The initiative strengthens BIMSTEC’s positioning as a viable alternative and complement to other regional forums, particularly as India intensifies its focus on inter-regional cooperation free from historical political hurdles.

Conclusion

India’s hosting of the BIMSTEC Young Leaders’ Summit in Guwahati marks a strategic leap toward harnessing youth potential for regional integration and prosperity. As these young visionaries return to their countries, their shared experiences and skills will serve as the foundation for a resilient, interconnected Bay of Bengal community poised for long-term growth and harmony.