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Translating Vision to Action
Shared Seas, Shared Security and Shared Prosperity
The inaugural BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise, being conducted from October 30 to November 3, 2026, marks a significant milestone in advancing maritime cooperation among the member states of BIMSTEC. Bringing together Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand, the exercise reinforces the shared commitment of member states towards regional security, stability and prosperity in the Bay of Bengal.
Building upon the outcomes of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit under the theme "BIMSTEC: Prosperous, Resilient and Open", the exercise provides a practical framework for enhancing maritime cooperation and operational linkages among participating nations. It reflects BIMSTEC's collective resolve towards "Translating Vision to Action" by advancing cooperation in areas of mutual maritime interest and strengthening regional security mechanisms.
The Bay of Bengal remains a critical maritime space connecting South and South-East Asia and supporting trade, connectivity, energy security and economic growth. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, strengthen maritime domain awareness, improve coordination mechanisms and promote the exchange of Best Practices among BIMSTEC member states.
The exercise also highlights the strategic importance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the role of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), India's first integrated tri-service command. Its location astride critical sea lanes of communication and its capabilities in maritime surveillance, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, search and rescue, and regional engagement make it an important pillar of maritime security in the Bay of Bengal.
As BIMSTEC nations come together for this inaugural exercise, they reaffirm their commitment to a secure, open and inclusive maritime domain. The exercise embodies the spirit of "Shared Seas, Shared Security and Shared Prosperity" and demonstrates regional solidarity in pursuit of peace, stability and sustainable development.
