PM Modi and Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck positively assessed to deepen cross-border linkages by expanding bilateral cooperation in different areas. The leaders addressed regional as well as global matters concerning both nations.
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PM Modi, Bhutan King Discuss Bilateral Cooperation
Prime Minister Modi held a crucial meeting with Bhutan King Jigme Wangchuck where both leaders discussed expanding the bilateral cooperation in the areas of trade, technology, mutual investments, cross-border connectivity and education. The leaders deliberated on expanding partnerships in skill development, space technology, energy, environment conservation and people-to-people contacts. PM Narendra Modi confirmed India’s commitment to supporting Nepal in its socio-economic development. King Jigme Wangchuck lauded India for successfully organizing the G20 summit. He praised India for making constructive decisions and its dedication to integrating the interests and priorities of Global South Countries.
India’s Assistance to Bhutan
The leaders evaluated the partnership between India and Nepal in various areas and expressed satisfaction with the progress made since their last meeting in April. Bhutan expressed its deep gratitude to India for its swift and timely assistance in completing some crucial projects under the 12th Fiver Year Plan. India also voiced its support for financing Bhutan’s projects and schemes and increasing the scholarships for Bhutanese students who are studying in India. India confirmed its “abiding commitment” to strengthen friendship and cooperation with Bhutan.
According to the joint statement released after the meeting, King Jigme Wangchuck and PM Modi agreed that India-Bhutan ties are mainly based on mutual trust and cooperation. PM Modi asserted that India’s continued support for the development of Bhutan is purely based on the guidelines of the Bhutanese government and according to “the vision of His Majesty”. Both sides declared a slew of measures for the expansion of trade and commerce. The King also extended an invitation to PM Modi to visit Bhutan which the Prime Minister accepted heartily.
Cross-Border Rail Link
The discussion also included the final location survey for the cross-border rail link between Bhutan (Gelephu) and Assam (Kokrajhar) which will facilitate the entry and exit of third-country nationals through land. They also discussed establishing another rail link between Banarhat (West Bengal) and Samtse (Bhutan). This will enhance connectivity and tourism in both countries. Both sides also committed to protecting the ecological diversity of the region.
Both sides stressed the importance of partnership in the hydropower sector. PM Modi assured King Jigme Wangchuck of providing the necessary technical and financial assistance for the crucial projects. In this high delegation level talks both sides agreed on nine specific points which covered a wide range of areas. However, there is no official confirmation whether both leaders had any discussion regarding the border dispute with China.
Bhutan king started his eight-day trip to India from Guwahati on November 3. The King also had a meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar who also confirmed India’s support towards the sustainable development of the Himalayan country.
India-Bhutan Relation
India and Bhutan enjoy exemplary and exceptional bilateral ties based on trust, cooperation and goodwill at every level. This visit was crucial as it provided opportunities to discuss multi-faceted diplomatic relations and forge an understanding to cooperate in various sectors. The basic foundation of India-Bhutan diplomatic and bilateral relations is the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation which was signed in 1949 and revised in 2007. The countries share a unique bilateral relationship and there have always been regular high-level visits and dialogues between both nations. India has been assisting Bhutan since the 1960s.
