The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) was formed in 1997 to foster economic collaboration and connectivity among member countries. The recent BIMSTEC summit held in August 2018 in Nepal focused on improving connectivity among member countries and promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Here are some measures that the BIMSTEC summit plans to adopt by 2030 to strengthen connectivity among member countries:

• Developing a multimodal transport network to facilitate the movement of goods and people across member countries
• Enhancing digital connectivity and improving access to ICT services
• Establishing a BIMSTEC power grid to ensure a reliable and affordable power supply
• Promoting tourism and cultural exchanges among member countries to boost people-to-people connectivity
• Encouraging private sector involvement in connectivity projects through public-private partnerships

The BIMSTEC summit has also emphasized the need to address non-tariff barriers to trade and to simplify customs procedures to facilitate the flow of goods. By adopting these measures, the BIMSTEC hopes to promote regional economic integration and improve the quality of life of people in member countries.