Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Paro, Bhutan today on a state visit from 22-23 March 2024. The visit is in keeping with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between India and Bhutan and the government’s emphasis on its Neighbourhood First Policy.
Prime Minister was warmly received by H.E. Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan at Paro airport and accorded ceremonial welcome. PM Modi’s arrival embraced warm relations between Bhutan and India as Bhutanese PM Tshering Tongay gave the former a warm hug.
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will receive audience with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan and His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan. Prime Minister will also hold talks with the Prime Minister of Bhutan Tshering Tobgay.
Prime Minister will inaugurate the Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Mother and Child Hospital in Thimphu, a state-of-the-art hospital, built with the assistance of the Government of India in Thimphu.
PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan comes after the Ministry of External (MEA) had said on Wednesday that his visit has been pushed back due to ‘inclement’ weather and new dates are being worked out through diplomatic channels on both sides.
India and Bhutan share a unique and exemplary bilateral relationship founded on mutual trust, goodwill, and understanding. Formal diplomatic ties between the two countries were established in 1968, with the cornerstone being the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation signed in 1949 and subsequently renewed in February 2007.
Over the years, high-level exchanges have played a pivotal role in nurturing the strong bond between India and Bhutan. King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, has made several visits to India, underscoring the close ties between the two nations. His last visit to India was in November 2023.
Similarly, PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan in August 2019 marked a significant milestone, with the launch of major bilateral projects aimed at bolstering economic cooperation and connectivity.
The recent official visit of Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay of Bhutan to India in March 2024 further reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to enhancing bilateral relations across various domains, including development cooperation and vibrant economic ties. (ANI)