His Majesty The King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, accompanied by Her Majesty The Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck, began a two-day official visit to India, underscoring the enduring friendship between the two neighboring nations. They were joined by Bhutan's Minister for Energy and Natural Resources, His Excellency Gem Tshering, and senior officials.
Key Highlights of the Visit
- High-Level Talks
- His Majesty The King and Indian Prime
Minister Narendra Modi held extensive discussions, covering bilateral
cooperation and global issues of mutual interest.
- External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar
and other senior officials also met with His Majesty.
- Strong Bilateral Relations
- Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening
the unique ties of friendship characterized by trust, mutual
understanding, and exceptional cooperation.
- Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's full
support for Bhutan's socio-economic development based on the Royal
Government's priorities.
- Developmental Support
- Bhutan appreciated India's enhanced support
under its 13th Five-Year Plan (2024-29) and the Economic Stimulus
Programme.
- Gelephu Mindfulness City Project
- His Majesty briefed the Indian side on the
progress of this transformative project. Prime Minister Modi pledged
continued support, highlighting its potential to enhance prosperity in
Bhutan and the border regions.
- Clean Energy Partnership
- Both leaders reviewed the progress in clean
energy collaboration, including hydropower and renewable energy.
- The commissioning of the 1020 MW
Punatshangchhu-II hydropower project is expected soon, while efforts to
conclude the Punatsangchhu-I project are ongoing.
- Infrastructure and Connectivity
- The newly inaugurated Integrated Check Post
at Darranga, Assam, is set to boost tourism and trade between Bhutan and
eastern India.
- Ongoing projects, including two cross-border
rail links and initiatives in digital connectivity, were praised for
their steady progress.
- Trade and Space Cooperation
- Recent decisions to enhance bilateral trade
and commerce were noted.
- Progress in space technology collaboration
and educational partnerships, particularly in STEM fields, was lauded.
- Hydropower and Energy Collaboration
- Both sides reaffirmed the importance of
advancing hydropower cooperation and finalizing new reservoir projects.
The visit concluded on a high
note, reflecting the shared vision of India and Bhutan to deepen their
partnership across various sectors, ensuring mutual growth and prosperity.
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