The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization comprising seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. In line with its objective to enhance regional connectivity and cooperation, BIMSTEC has established an Expert Group on Visa Matters to streamline and harmonize visa procedures among member countries.
The 5th Meeting of the BIMSTEC Expert Group on Visa Matters was held on 18 and 19 November 2025 at Courtyard by Marriott, Colombo, hosted by the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
The meeting brought together senior officials and technical experts from all seven BIMSTEC member countries to discuss measures aimed at enhancing regional mobility, visa facilitation, and people-to-people connectivity across the Bay of Bengal region. The Expert Group on Visa Matters serves as a key mechanism within BIMSTEC for streamlining visa processes and developing collaborative approaches that promote tourism, business travel, education, and cultural exchange among member states.
The inauguration session was chaired by the Secretary of the Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, who highlighted the importance of strengthened regional cooperation in visa facilitation and mobility. Representatives from all seven BIMSTEC member states participated in the two-day programme.
On the evening of 18 November, a dinner reception was held with the presence of the Hon. Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, providing an opportunity for further engagement among delegates. The meeting continued on 19 November, concluding with a city tour for the participants.
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