 Ajit Doval on Thursday hosted the 5th BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs' Meeting in New Delhi){kind=link}
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval chaired the 5th BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs’ Meeting in New Delhi
July 16, 2026: National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval on Thursday hosted the 5th BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs’ Meeting in New Delhi, bringing together delegations from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The meeting highlighted BIMSTEC’s growing role in strengthening cooperation between South Asia and Southeast Asia across areas such as regional security, connectivity, disaster management, trade, and technology.
During the meeting, the BIMSTEC Secretary General presented an update on progress in the security sector, while participating National Security Advisers discussed practical measures to enhance cooperation against terrorism, organised crime, cybersecurity threats, maritime security, energy security, disaster management, and regional connectivity. The leaders also exchanged views on tackling emerging security challenges affecting the region.
A key outcome of the meeting was the adoption of guidelines for the maritime component of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), aimed at improving coordination during natural disasters and emergencies. Member states also endorsed guiding principles for maritime law enforcement interactions at sea to enhance safety and operational coordination. As BIMSTEC approaches its 30th anniversary, the participating nations reaffirmed their commitment to deeper regional cooperation and collective security.