Bangkok [Thailand]: Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has expressed deep admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a mentor and elder brother who has played a crucial role in strengthening India-Bhutan relations. In an exclusive interview with media, Tobgay acknowledged India’s generous support in Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan and the Gelephu Mindfulness City project.
Key Highlights from PM Tshering Tobgay’s Interview
1️⃣ India’s Support to Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan
PM Tobgay appreciated India’s financial assistance to Bhutan’s economic growth and development:
- ₹8,500 crore allocated for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2024-2029)
- ₹1,500 crore provided as an economic stimulus package
- Total support: ₹10,000 crore over five years
Tobgay credited PM Modi’s leadership and vision for helping Bhutan recover from post-COVID economic challenges.
2️⃣ Gelephu Mindfulness City – India’s Unconditional Support
- Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck has envisioned the Gelephu Mindfulness City along the India-Bhutan border as a special administrative region with its own government, laws, and judicial system.
- The project aims to benefit Bhutan, India, and the South Asian region.
- India has pledged unconditional support, further solidifying diplomatic and economic ties.
3️⃣ First Railway Line Between India and Bhutan
- India is building and financing the first railway line connecting Bhutan to India, enhancing connectivity.
- A rail link is also planned for Western Bhutan (Shamsi) to further strengthen trade and travel.
- Gelephu’s proximity to the Brahmaputra River (80 km) offers maritime connectivity to the Bay of Bengal, making it a strategic trade hub.
4️⃣ Bhutan’s Close Diplomatic Engagements with India
- PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan in 2024 was a significant milestone.
- Bhutan’s King frequently visits India, reinforcing strong diplomatic ties.
- Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to visit Bhutan soon.
- Bhutan is hopeful that PM Modi will personally inaugurate the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu Hydropower Project.
5️⃣ Tobgay’s Praise for Modi’s Global Leadership
- Tobgay mentioned watching PM Modi’s interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman and described him as a “spiritual master.”
- He emphasized PM Modi’s role in BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) and India’s leadership in the regional disaster response mechanism.
PM Modi & Tshering Tobgay’s Meeting at BIMSTEC Summit
- PM Modi and PM Tobgay met in Bangkok on the sidelines of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit.
- Discussions focused on:
- Enhancing regional cooperation
- Strengthening India-Bhutan bilateral ties
- BIMSTEC’s role in disaster response and economic integration
- PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to boosting cooperation across BIMSTEC nations.
Statements from the Leaders
🔹 PM Narendra Modi on X:
“Had a great conversation with my good friend, PM Tobgay. India’s friendship with Bhutan is robust. We are cooperating extensively in several sectors.”
🔹 PM Tshering Tobgay on X:
“Always a pleasure to meet my elder brother and mentor PM @narendramodi ji. Discussed BIMSTEC, enhancing regional cooperation, and furthering Bhutan-India friendship.”
Conclusion
Bhutan and India continue to share a deep-rooted friendship, strengthened by economic cooperation, infrastructure projects, and diplomatic trust. PM Tshering Tobgay’s public admiration for PM Modi highlights the positive trajectory of India-Bhutan relations, making them a model of regional cooperation in South Asia.