PM Modi visit to Bhutan for stronger ties and views on on bilateral and regional issues!

PM Modi visit to Bhutan had been postponed previously due to bad weather in the Himalayan region. He landed in Bhutan on Friday morning, beginning a two-day state visit. His Bhutanese counterpart, Tshering Tobgay, greeted the prime minister at Paro Airport. 

“On my way to Bhutan, where I will be attending various programs to cement the India-Bhutan partnership further,” the prime minister wrote on X before leaving. “I look forward to talks with Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.” 

Modi was supposed to visit Bhutan from March 21 to March 22, which was expected to be his final foreign visit before the general election. The two parties negotiated new dates through diplomatic channels. 

According to PTI, posters and billboards inviting Modi to Bhutan were put up ahead of his arrival. 

Why PM Modi visit to Bhutan?

According to Ministry of External Affairs, trip would allow both parties to exchange perspectives on bilateral and regional issues. Further, they add they will debate how to develop and enhance “exemplary partnership” for the sake of the people. 

The prime minister’s visit to Bhutan follows days after his Bhutanese counterpart, Tshering Tobgay, visited India from March 14 to 18. Tobgay made his first international tour since taking office in January to India.

During Tobgay’s visit, Modi stated that India will increase support for Bhutan’s 13th five-year plan. This included an appeal for an economic stimulus program and statement that New Delhi’s development funding will focus on infrastructure and connectivity. 

According to a joint statement published after Modi and Tobgay’s meeting, the premiers recognized that India and Bhutan’s excellent friendship ties strengthen the region.

The two sides also agreed to expand bilateral ties. PM Modi states that India is dedicated to assisting Bhutan’s goal of becoming a high-income nation. This was by the Bhutanese king’s vision. 

Tobgay expressed gratitude to the Indian government for providing ₹5,000 crore in development funds for Bhutan’s earlier five-year plan.

The air will be focused on infrastructure development, including road, rail, air, and digital connectivity. It further supports agriculture, healthcare, education, skilling, and cultural preservation sectors.