The BIMSTEC today appointed Bangladesh’s candidate M Shahidul Islam as the next secretary general of the sub-regional grouping for a term of three years.

Islam, currently serving as the ambassador of Bangladesh to France, was appointed during the 15th BIMSTEC ministerial meeting, said a foreign ministry press release.

Earlier on Thursday, the Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) recommended appointment of Secretary General of Bangladesh as the tour of duty of the first Secretary General expired on 10 August 2017.

Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali led Bangladesh delegation to the 15th BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting held in Kathmandu.