KATHMANDU, APRIL 10
The International Relations & Global Diplomacy Dialogue (IRGDD) and the Ambassadors Club hosted a significant high-level breakfast meeting today, bringing together key delegates from the BIMSTEC member states. Under the leadership of President Dr. Sarmila Parajuli Dhakal, the event aimed to enhance dialogue on agricultural development and food security within the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) region.
The breakfast meeting was a platform for important discussions on regional cooperation in agriculture, with Dr. Dhakal expressing her enthusiasm in welcoming visionary leaders committed to a sustainable agricultural future. Recognizing the invaluable contributions of attendees, she extended her appreciation to Yonten Phuntsho, Bhutan's Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, as well as Indra Mani Pandey, the Secretary General of BIMSTEC, for his influential leadership and ongoing friendship.
Among the attendees were senior secretaries from the Government of Nepal, including Krishna Bahadur Raut of the Ministry of Industry, Govindra Bahadur Karki of the Ministry of Commerce and Supplies, Mr. Suresh Acharya of the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, and Dr. Govindra Prasad Sharma of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
In his address, Pandey underscored BIMSTEC's commitment to regional cooperation and the importance of engaging with senior officials from Nepal. He reflected on the organization's unique composition, shaped by shared geography and cultural heritage, while eagerly anticipating his return to Kathmandu next month for the Sagarmatha Sambaad, which will focus on global climate challenges.
Highlighting contemporary dynamics in diplomacy, he noted the rising influence of social media on foreign affairs, stressing the need for transparency and public engagement in policy-making. Additionally, he praised the IRGDD's efforts, envisioning it as a critical player in fostering regional dialogue and discussing the expansion of BIMSTEC-affiliated think tanks to enhance policy exchange.
The event attracted numerous dignitaries from BIMSTEC nations, including notable officials from Bhutan and various former ambassadors, alongside government representatives and members of the business community. Guests enjoyed a specially curated breakfast featuring signature dishes that celebrated the rich culinary diversity of South Asia, symbolizing the unity and cultural ties within the region.
This high-level meeting marks a significant step toward enhancing collaboration in agriculture and food security among BIMSTEC countries, showcasing the shared commitment to sustainable development in the region.
