At an inaugural event in Shillong, the renowned think tank Asian Confluence launched the Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies to promote research and regional cooperation for development across the Bay of Bengal region.
New centre to nurture Bay of Bengal cooperation
On October 30, 2025, the think-tank Asian Confluence officially inaugurated the Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies (CBBS) at its headquarters in Shillong. The objective of the centre is to foster dialogue, research and cross-border collaboration on issues tied to the Bay of Bengal region, from connectivity and trade to security and environment.
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A press release by the Asian Confluence reads, “The esteemed panelists were: Smt Patricia Mukhim, Padma Shri & Editor, The Shillong Times; Shri C.S.R Ram, JS (BIMSTEC and SAARC), MEA; Shri Abe Noraike, Minister, Councillor Political, Embassy of Japan, India; Smt Preeti Rahman, Deputy High Commissioner, High Commission of Bangladesh, India; Shri Ambika Prasad Joshi, Councillor Minister, Nepal Embassy, India and Shri Tshewang Dorji, Director Bhutan, BIMSTEC”
Regional dialogue covers mountains to the sea
Following the formal launch, a high-level panel discussion took place under the theme: “Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal: Envisioning a Resilient and Prosperous Future – Opportunities and Challenges.” Panellists from across member states — including Japan’s Embassy, Bangladesh’s Deputy High Commissioner in India, Nepal’s Embassy minister counsellor and Bhutan’s BIMSTEC Director — weighed in on how to boost commercial linkages, research ties, and policy alignment.
Notably, Shri Prithvish Nag, Former Surveyor General of India and Advisor, Asian Confluence, gave a special presentation, emphasising the Bay of Bengal’s historic role in trade and cultural exchange, says the release.
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The CBBS plans to engage academics, industry leaders, policy actors and civil society through both online and physical sessions. Among its focal points are maritime trade, coastal resilience, digital connectivity and cultural exchange.
By tying together states on the Bay of Bengal rim, the centre aims to provide a cohesive platform that complements BIMSTEC and strengthens India’s eastern outreach.
