He has also requested for a "transformation" of the seven-nation group that includes Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand, turning it into a more dynamic organization. This appeal was made at the 16th BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kathmandu, chaired by Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali. Foreign Minister Mahmood Ali discussed the progress made since the 3rd BIMSTEC meeting in Myanmar in 2014 and the BIMSTEC Leaders' pledge at the Goa Retreat in October 2016. He reiterated Bangladesh's dedication to BIMSTEC cooperation. He requested BIMSTEC foreign ministers to assess the organization's structure, especially in terms of cooperation, and to enhance the Secretariat. He emphasized the need to finalize the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area and related agreements for prompt implementation. Bangladesh highlighted the importance of collaboration in key areas like connectivity, energy, poverty reduction, climate action, and cultural exchanges. The meeting also finalized the agenda for the upcoming summit. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to depart for Kathmandu on Thursday morning to participate in the two-day summit.