Himalayan nation adorned with 'Long live Bhutan-India friendship' posters ahead of PM Modi's visit

PM Modi's visit from March 21-22 will further strengthen the multifaceted cooperation between the two neighbouring nations across various sectors, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a press statement.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to pay a two-day state visit to Bhutan this week, the Himalayan nation is decked up with posters of PM Modi with slogans 'Long live Bhutan-India friendship'. PM Modi's visit from March 21-22 will further strengthen the multifaceted cooperation between the two neighbouring nations across various sectors, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a press statement.

During the visit, the Prime Minister will receive an audience with Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan and Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan. The Prime Minister will also hold talks with the Prime Minister of Bhutan Tshering Tobgay, the MEA said. Ahead of PM Modi's arrival, the airport and the roads have been adorned with posters of PM Modi and the Bhutanese King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

Earlier, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi accepted the invitation of his Bhutanese counterpart, Tshering Tobgay to visit Bhutan after Bhutan PM extended his invitation to PM Modi during his India visit this month. Different posters have been put up at various places in the city along with the flags of both countries.

King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck too 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.

Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay was in India on an official visit, which was his first overseas visit after assuming office in February 2024. Over the years, high-level exchanges have played a pivotal role in nurturing the strong bond between India and Bhutan. Formal diplomatic ties between the two countries were established in 1968.

The economic partnership between India and Bhutan has flourished over the years, driven by the India-Bhutan Agreement on Trade, Commerce, and Transit. This agreement, first signed in 1972 and revised multiple times, has facilitated a free trade regime between the two countries, promoting bilateral trade and economic growth. India stands as Bhutan's top trade partner, both in terms of imports and exports. The bilateral trade volume has seen a significant surge, reaching INR 11,178 crores in 2022, showcasing the robust economic engagement between the two nations. India's investments in Bhutan span various sectors, including banking, manufacturing, electricity generation, and IT services, contributing to Bhutan's socio-economic development and fostering closer economic integration.

India has been a steadfast development partner for Bhutan, extending economic assistance to support its socio-economic progress since the 1960s. India's contribution to Bhutan's 12th Five Year Plan, amounting to Rs 5000 Cr., underscores its commitment to supporting Bhutan's developmental aspirations. With several hydroelectric projects operational and others in various stages of implementation, India has played a pivotal role in supporting Bhutan's energy security objectives. The commissioning of projects like the Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project and the ongoing collaboration in the hydro-power sector underscores the shared commitment to sustainable energy development and regional cooperation.The educational and cultural ties between India and Bhutan form an integral part of their bilateral relations. India has been a key destination for Bhutanese students seeking higher education, with over 1000 scholarships provided annually by the Government of India.

Additionally, cultural exchanges and initiatives under the India-Bhutan Foundation have strengthened people-to-people ties, fostering greater understanding and collaboration between the two societies. The Nehru Wangchuck Scholarship Scheme, ICCR Scholarships, and ITEC program have further facilitated skill development and capacity building in Bhutan, reflecting India's commitment to nurturing human capital and fostering educational excellence in the region. Cultural and religious ties between India and Bhutan have deep historical roots, with shared Buddhist heritage serving as a cornerstone of their cultural identity. Pilgrimages to sacred Buddhist sites in India and cultural exchanges have further cemented these ties, enriching the spiritual and cultural fabric of both nations. Initiatives such as the loaning of the Zhabdrung Statue by the Asiatic Society, Kolkata, and the visit of His Holiness the Je Khenpo to Rajgir underscore the enduring cultural bonds and shared reverence for Buddhist traditions.

In addition to traditional areas of cooperation, India and Bhutan are exploring new avenues for collaboration, including digital initiatives, space cooperation, and technology partnerships. Projects like 'Digital Drukyul' and the joint development of satellites reflect the commitment to harnessing technology for mutual benefit and socio-economic progress. The interoperability of flagship projects like RuPay and the BHIM app demonstrates the evolving nature of the bilateral relationship, with a focus on leveraging digital innovations for inclusive growth and development.

Recent developments, including progress on rail connectivity links and the establishment of Integrated Check Posts, underscore the commitment to enhancing trade and connectivity between India and Bhutan. Financial linkages, youth empowerment initiatives, and skill development programs further highlight the comprehensive nature of the bilateral partnership, aimed at fostering sustainable development and prosperity in Bhutan. (ANI)

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