BAOU and India’s Ministry of External Affairs to host regional leaders, diplomats and academics for two-day dialogue on connectivity, culture and sustainable development
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University (BAOU), Ahmedabad, in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, will host an international conference titled “Strengthening BIMSTEC’s Role in Connectivity, Culture and Cooperation” on June 6 and 7 2026 at GIFT City Club in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
The two-day conference is expected to bring together diplomats, policymakers, academics, researchers, industry representatives and delegates from national and international institutions to discuss key issues shaping regional cooperation among BIMSTEC member countries.
According to the organisers, the event will focus on strengthening collaboration in areas such as connectivity, cultural exchange, education, innovation and sustainable development. Participants will engage in discussions aimed at enhancing regional partnerships and exploring opportunities for greater economic and social integration across the Bay of Bengal region.
The conference comes at a time when BIMSTEC, which comprises seven member nations bordering the Bay of Bengal, is seeking to expand its role in promoting regional development and cooperation. The forum is expected to provide a platform for sharing policy perspectives, research findings and practical approaches to addressing common regional challenges.
BAOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ami Upadhyay said the conference would serve as an important opportunity for experts and stakeholders to exchange ideas and contribute to strengthening regional ties. The university has extended invitations to selected participants for the event, with registration being strictly by invitation and non-transferable.
In addition to the conference sessions, organisers have arranged networking opportunities, including official lunch and dinner engagements on June 6 and a lunch programme on June 7, enabling delegates to continue discussions and foster professional collaborations.
The conference is expected to highlight the growing importance of BIMSTEC as a platform for promoting connectivity, cultural understanding and cooperative development across South and Southeast Asia.
