In New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived on Friday for a two-day State visit to Bhutan, aiming to fortify India’s distinctive ties with the Himalayan nation.
“En route to Bhutan, where I am scheduled to participate in various initiatives aimed at strengthening the India-Bhutan alliance. I eagerly anticipate discussions with Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, and Prime Minister @tsheringtobgay,” the Prime Minister conveyed on X.
The visit, initially planned for March 21 and 22, had to be rescheduled due to adverse weather conditions in Bhutan. The visit presents an opportunity for both parties to “exchange perspectives on bilateral and regional issues of significance and deliberate on strategies to enhance and deepen our exemplary partnership for the welfare of our populations,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated earlier this week.
India and Bhutan enjoy “an extraordinary and lasting alliance founded on mutual confidence, comprehension, and benevolence,” the statement emphasized. “Our shared spiritual legacy and cordial people-to-people connections contribute richness and vitality to our exceptional rapport,” the MEA articulated.
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will have an audience with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, and His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan, it noted.
“The visit is consistent with the tradition of regular high-level interactions between India and Bhutan and the administration’s emphasis on its ‘Neighbourhood First Policy,'” the MEA highlighted.
The prime minister will be granted an audience with Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and his father Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of the Himalayan nation.
Modi will also engage in bilateral discussions with his Bhutanese counterpart Tshering Tobgay. The Prime Minister is slated to receive a grand reception at the Tashichho Dzong, a conventional Buddhist monastery and the headquarters of the Bhutanese government.
Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay recently visited India for five days, marking his inaugural overseas trip after assuming office in January. He also convened with leaders from various sectors, alongside other significant commitments.
