PM Modi Visits Bhutan to Strengthen Ties and Celebrate King’s 70th Birthday
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bhutan on a two-day visit, November 11-12, receiving a grand welcome at Paro Airport in Thimphu. Several senior Bhutanese ministers and top officials were present to greet him. The visit aims to strengthen India-Bhutan relations and includes celebrations of the 70th birthday of Bhutan’s fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
Addressing an event in Thimphu, PM Modi expressed his sorrow over the recent Delhi blast. “I have come here with a very heavy heart,” he said, adding that the nation stands with the families of the victims and that the perpetrators will not be spared. He confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that all agencies are actively pursuing leads.
On India-Bhutan relations, the Prime Minister described the bond between the two countries as “historic, deep, and intimate.” He said, “For centuries, India and Bhutan have shared strong cultural ties. It was both India’s and my personal promise to participate in this important occasion.”
PM Modi highlighted the significance of the visit, coinciding with the Global Peace Prayer Festival and worship of the Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha. “I was born in Vadnagar and work in Varanasi, both deeply rooted in Buddhist tradition. That is why this celebration holds a special place in my heart,” he added.
Recalling his first visit to Bhutan after taking oath as Prime Minister in 2014, Modi said, “The relations between India and Bhutan are so strong that we have stood together through challenges and difficulties.”
The Prime Minister also praised Bhutan’s environmental leadership. “Under the vision of its former and current kings, Bhutan has become the world’s first carbon-negative country. Our energy partnership, particularly the India-Bhutan Hydropower collaboration, continues to accelerate development and prosperity in both nations.”
During this visit, PM Modi will meet Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. Together, PM Modi and the King will inaugurate the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, jointly developed by India and Bhutan. The Ministry of External Affairs noted that the visit will further strengthen the special ties of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay welcomed PM Modi warmly, calling him “my elder brother” and expressing confidence that the visit will deepen bilateral relations and promote shared progress and prosperity. PM Modi emphasized that the India-Bhutan partnership is a key pillar of India’s “Neighborhood First Policy” and a model for excellent friendly relations between neighboring countries.