Significance of the invitations

NEW DELHI: Narendra Modi will take the oath of office as the 16th Prime Minister of India on Thursday in the presence of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) leaders and heads of state from Mauritius and Kyrgyzstan.In a statement the Ministry of External Affairs said, "We look forward to receiving the dignitaries in New Delhi for the ceremony. We will keep you abreast of any related developments, including bilateral engagements, in due course."Besides India, BIMSTEC comprises Bangladesh , Myanmar , Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan. BIMSTEC brings together 1.5 billion people – 21% of the world population, and a combined GDP of over US$ 2.5 trillion. The invitation to the swearing in thus helps India assert its commitment to regional cooperation.At PM Modi's 2014 swearing-in ceremony, India had invited Saarc nations which included Pakistan. However, five years later, focus on BIMSTEC suggests India's priorities are taking an eastward turn. BIMSTEC is important for India given that tensions with Pakistan, affect India's access to the rest of the Asian continent. Which is why building direct bridges with BIMSTEC member states as well as Asean suits Indai's interests.In addition to BIMSTEC leaders, heads of state from Mauritius and Kyrgyzstan have also been invited.