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

National security chiefs of BIMSTEC countries on Thursday, July 16, 2026, approved new guiding principles to facilitate maritime law enforcement coordination, while pledging to jointly combat regional security challenges, including terrorism and organized crime. The meeting held in New Delhi was hosted by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) consists of India, as well as Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal and Bhutan.

New Delhi is taking a number of initiatives in BIMSTEC to enhance security, facilitate trade and investment, increase connectivity and strengthen regional cooperation and partnership, including cooperation in food and energy security.

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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that national security advisors and delegation heads discussed practical and result-oriented solutions to combat terrorism and organized crime and ensure security in cyber, maritime and energy fields.

It was also stated that increasing connectivity, facilitating effective disaster management and combating new and emerging threats were also discussed.

“They adopted guidelines on the maritime component of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. These guidelines will help BIMSTEC member states to quickly undertake relief operations in the region,” the MEA said.

“They also approved a set of guiding principles regarding the conduct of maritime law enforcement during interactions at sea,” he added.

The MEA said these principles are expected to outline reference points to increase predictability and promote safety during maritime activities between member states.

“As BIMSTEC approaches its 30th anniversary next year, the National Security Advisers/Heads of Panels reiterated their commitment to further enhance cooperation and information sharing to strengthen regional security, build resilience and enhance institutional capacities against various security threats.” he said.

At the meeting, the BIMSTEC secretary general presented a comprehensive overview of the state of cooperation in the security sector and briefed member states on progress made in a wide range of sectors.

“BIMSTEC bridges South Asia and Southeast Asia, two of the most important and vibrant regions of the Indian Ocean,” MEA said.

“Over the years, BIMSTEC has deepened cooperation on regional security, disaster management, transport and trade connectivity, technological issues and people-to-people contacts,” he said in a statement.