New Delhi [India]: Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation and addressing regional and global concerns during the King’s official visit to India.
During the discussions on Thursday, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to its strong friendship with Bhutan, pledging continued support for Bhutan’s socio-economic development.
The leaders expressed satisfaction with the significant progress made since their last meeting in March 2024, highlighting the importance of regular high-level engagements across diverse areas of cooperation.
The King and Queen of Bhutan, Jetsun Pema Wangchuck, are in India for an official visit from December 5-6. Accompanied by Bhutan’s Minister for Energy and Natural Resources, Gem Tshering, and senior government officials, they were welcomed in New Delhi by External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar.
“During the visit, the King of Bhutan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions covering the entire gamut of bilateral cooperation and regional and global issues of mutual interest. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and senior officials called on The King of Bhutan,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated in a press release.
The two leaders commended the progress made in key sectors such as trade, infrastructure, energy, education, health, digital economy, and cultural exchanges. They emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections, environment conservation, and technological advancements in areas like e-mobility and space exploration.
King Wangchuck expressed gratitude for India’s continued developmental support, including assistance under Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan (2024-29) and the Economic Stimulus Programme. PM Modi reassured India’s full support for Bhutan’s development priorities, aligned with the King’s vision.
The King also shared updates on his vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Administrative Region. PM Modi committed India’s cooperation in advancing the project, which aims to foster prosperity in Bhutan and strengthen economic ties with India.
Both leaders reviewed the status of energy cooperation, expressing satisfaction with the nearing completion of the 1020 MW Punatshangchhu-II hydropower project. They also called for expedited progress on the Punatshangchhu-I project and committed to advancing new hydropower initiatives.
The operationalization of the Integrated Check Post at Darranga, Assam, was welcomed as a boost to tourism and economic activities in eastern Bhutan and adjacent Indian regions. Progress on cross-border rail and digital connectivity projects, as well as enhancements in bilateral trade, was also noted positively.
The leaders highlighted strides made in the space sector under a Joint Plan of Action and acknowledged growing collaboration in education, particularly in STEM disciplines.
India and Bhutan’s ties are marked by mutual trust, understanding, and historical goodwill. The discussions reinforced these bonds, reflecting shared goals of regional development and prosperity.
On Wednesday, EAM Jaishankar met King Wangchuck to discuss Bhutan’s development goals and the steady progress of India-Bhutan collaborations.