Dhaka, Feb. 4 -- The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) aims to strengthen shipping connectivity and port infrastructure across the Bay of Bengal region.

In this connection, a Maritime Transport Cooperation Agreement was signed during the last Bangkok summit, to streamline port procedures, enhance shipping links and modernise port facilities among the seven member states.

Its implementation would 'open up a new horizon in fostering regional connectivity', BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey told The Financial Express.

The maritime pact marks one of the most concrete outcomes for BIMSTEC, which was established in 1997 to promote technical and economic cooperation among South ...