Prime Minister Modi's State Visit to Bhutan Scheduled for March 21-22, 2024
New Delhi, March 20, 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming State visit to Bhutan from March 21 to March 22, 2024, is poised to reinforce the longstanding ties between India and Bhutan on multiple fronts.
These relations, between two Himalayan nations deeply entrenched in shared history, cultural affinities, and strategic cooperation, have consistently remained a cornerstone of India's foreign policy, particularly in its Neighbourhood First approach.
The significance of this visit lies not only in the ceremonial aspects of diplomatic engagement but also in the substantive discussions aimed at further enhancing bilateral cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi's audience with Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, along with Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan, symbolizes the high regard India holds for Bhutan's monarchy and its pivotal role in the country's governance.
Moreover, the scheduled talks with Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay highlight the comprehensive nature of India-Bhutan relations, spanning political, economic, cultural, and strategic domains. Such dialogues provide an invaluable opportunity to not only review the progress of existing initiatives but also chart out a roadmap for future collaboration.
Newly elected Bhutan Prime Minister Tobgay was last week in India and invited Prime Minister Modi to Bhutan on behalf of the King. Prime Minister Modi readily accepted the invitation.
Bhutan PM Tobgay made his first visit to India after being elected for the position for the second time. His visit was marked by engagements with top Indian officials, including the President and Prime Minister.
These interactions, coupled with Prime Minister Modi's forthcoming visit, reflect the serious mutual commitment to sustaining the momentum of bilateral engagement and deepening the strategic partnership.
Trade and economic ties: India's diverse exports to Bhutan, ranging from petroleum products to automobiles, complement Bhutan's exports, including hydropower and minerals, contributing to the economic development of both nations.
The India-Bhutan Agreement on Trade, Commerce, and Transit has been instrumental in fostering a conducive environment for bilateral trade The exponential growth witnessed in trade volumes underlines the symbiotic nature of economic relations, with India emerging as Bhutan's primary trade partner.
The development partnership between India and Bhutan stands as a shining example of South-South cooperation, with India's assistance playing a pivotal role in Bhutan's socio-economic progress.
From infrastructure development to capacity-building initiatives, India's support has been instrumental in advancing Bhutan's development agenda. The ongoing collaboration under the 12th Five-Year Plan and discussions for the 13th Five-Year Plan underscore the continuity and depth of India's commitment to Bhutan's development aspirations.
Hydropower cooperation remains a linchpin of bilateral ties, with India's expertise and investments driving Bhutan's hydropower sector. The operationalization of hydroelectric projects and the ongoing development of new projects not only contribute to Bhutan's energy security but also foster regional energy cooperation.
Educational, Cultural and People-to-People Exchange
Over 1000 scholarships annually, along with various scholarship schemes, are given to support Bhutanese students in their academic pursuits. Educational and cultural ties between India and Bhutan continue to flourish, with scholarships, vocational training, and cultural exchanges fostering greater understanding and collaboration.
Cultural and Buddhist links remain strong, with pilgrimages, temple construction projects, and cultural exchanges enhancing mutual understanding and fostering spiritual connections between the two nations.
New Areas of Cooperation Between India and Bhutan
India and Bhutan have ventured into new realms of collaboration beyond traditional sectors. The interoperability of the RuPay digital project, marking a significant milestone, has been completed. Bhutan has emerged as the second country to launch the BHIM app. Additionally, technological initiatives like 'Digital Drukyul' have been initiated, with India providing financial support for establishing an optical fibre backbone reaching all villages across Bhutan.
Moreover, collaborations in space technology have seen significant strides, in the joint development and launch of the 'India-Bhutan SAT' satellite.
Progress on rail links and the announcement of new Integrated checkposts demonstrate a commitment to enhancing trade infrastructure and connectivity between India and Bhutan.
Financial linkages have also strengthened, with standby credit facilities and currency swap arrangements providing stability and support to Bhutan's economy. Youth empowerment and skilling initiatives have received a boost through grants and concessional loans, contributing to Bhutan's efforts in skill development and capacity building.
Prime Minister Modi's visit to Bhutan is poised to invigorate the multifaceted India-Bhutan relationship, reflecting the shared commitment to mutual prosperity, security, and well-being as both nations navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, the bonds of friendship and cooperation.
