H.E. Indra Mani Pandey Participates in 21st Asia Media Summit 2026 in Maldives
His Excellency Indra Mani Pandey, Secretary General of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, participated in the 21st Asia Media Summit 2026 held in Malé from 11–14 May 2026. The summit brought together policymakers, media leaders, communication experts, and regional organizations from across Asia and the Pacific to discuss the evolving role of media in promoting regional cooperation, digital transformation, sustainable development, and information resilience.
The Asia Media Summit, regarded as one of the region’s leading media forums, provided an important platform for dialogue on the future of journalism, public communication, digital innovation, and responsible media practices in an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven world. The event focused on critical issues such as artificial intelligence in media, combating misinformation, media ethics, climate communication, and strengthening regional collaboration through digital platforms.
During the summit, Secretary General Pandey highlighted the growing importance of strategic communication and media cooperation in strengthening regional connectivity and people-to-people engagement among BIMSTEC member states. He emphasized that media institutions play a vital role in promoting regional understanding, fostering cultural exchange, and supporting inclusive development across the Bay of Bengal region.
In his interactions with media professionals and policymakers, H.E. Pandey underlined BIMSTEC’s commitment to enhancing cooperation in areas such as connectivity, trade, technology, disaster management, public health, energy security, and sustainable development. He also stressed the importance of responsible journalism and credible information sharing in addressing common regional challenges and strengthening democratic values.
The Secretary General further noted that digital transformation is reshaping the global media landscape and creating new opportunities for regional organizations to engage citizens more effectively. He encouraged greater collaboration between media organizations, governments, and regional institutions to promote innovation, media literacy, and constructive public discourse.
On the sidelines of the summit, H.E. Pandey held discussions with senior officials, international delegates, and representatives from media organizations regarding future cooperation in communication strategies, public diplomacy, and regional outreach initiatives. These engagements reflected BIMSTEC’s broader vision of strengthening institutional visibility and expanding regional partnerships through effective communication and collaborative engagement.
The participation of BIMSTEC at the Asia Media Summit 2026 also highlighted the organization’s growing international profile as an important regional platform connecting South Asia and Southeast Asia. As BIMSTEC continues to advance cooperation among its member states, engagement with regional media forums is increasingly seen as essential for enhancing awareness, promoting shared regional priorities, and supporting sustainable and inclusive growth.
The 21st Asia Media Summit concluded with renewed calls for stronger regional collaboration in media development, digital innovation, and ethical journalism, recognizing the critical role of communication in promoting peace, resilience, and regional integration in Asia.
