BIMSTEC urges stronger regional action on climate risks

BIMSTEC urges stronger regional action on climate risks

BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey has called for stronger regional cooperation to address climate-induced security challenges, urging greater focus on adaptation, improved access to climate finance and technology, and inclusive multi-stakeholder partnerships across the Bay of Bengal region.

Speaking at the 7th Berlin Climate and Security Conference 2025, held in Berlin on October 23, Pandey said tackling climate change is no longer a matter of choice but “a strategic necessity for peace, stability and sustainable development.” He emphasised that coordinated action at national, regional and global levels is vital to confront the escalating climate crisis.

Participating in a high-level panel titled “Beyond Borders: Regional and Plurilateral Climate Security in Action,” the BIMSTEC Secretary General highlighted how regional organisations can complement global efforts through targeted, context-specific cooperation to address climate-related threats.

Pandey noted that unpredictable weather patterns and rising climate volatility have deeply affected BIMSTEC member states, undermining food systems, public health, and overall human security across the region.

“The role of regional organisations such as BIMSTEC cannot be overstated,” he remarked, adding that BIMSTEC’s initiatives enhance collective resilience while reinforcing global multilateral frameworks.

He outlined BIMSTEC’s key contributions to strengthening cooperation in critical areas including disaster management, environment and climate change, mountain economy, renewable energy, agriculture, and food security.

Pandey underscored the need for “stronger emphasis on adaptation, enhanced access to climate finance and technology, the promotion of local and community-based solutions, and the strengthening of multi-stakeholder partnerships” to effectively respond to climate-induced risks.

Reaffirming BIMSTEC’s commitment to advancing regional and global collaboration, Pandey said the organisation will continue to work closely with non-member countries and international institutions to build “a secure, sustainable and climate-resilient future for the region.”

BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, comprises seven member countries — Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand — that cooperate in key areas such as trade and investment, connectivity, environment and climate change, agriculture and food security, science and technology, and security.