PM Modi’s Bhutan visit focuses on energy cooperation, spiritual ties, and shared goals as nations mark the Fourth King’s 70th birthday

PM Modi’s Bhutan visit to boost bilateral ties
Narendra Modi (Image via ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Thimphu, Bhutan, on Tuesday (11th November) for a two-day state visit aimed at further deepening India’s close and friendly ties with Bhutan. 

During the scheduled visit on 11th and 12th November, PM Modi will take part in several official programmes and attend the Global Peace Prayer Festival, an event organised by the Royal Government of Bhutan.

PM Modi shared a post on X, saying, “Leaving for Bhutan, where I will attend various programmes. This visit comes at a time when Bhutan is marking the 70th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King. I will be holding talks with His Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth King and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. In a big boost to our energy partnership, the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project will be inaugurated. This visit will add new vigour to our bilateral relations.”

During the visit, PM Modi will meet King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and the Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, besides holding discussions with Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. The two sides will inaugurate the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, which has been jointly developed by India and Bhutan. The project marks another major milestone in the long-standing energy cooperation between the two nations.

The visit also coincides with the 70th birth anniversary celebrations of the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, who is widely admired in Bhutan for his leadership and for introducing the concept of Gross National Happiness. PM Modi will join the celebrations and pay tribute to the Fourth King’s contribution to Bhutan’s progress and democracy.

Another important part of the visit will be PM Modi’s participation in the Global Peace Prayer Festival, a unique event where prayers are being offered for world peace and harmony. India’s Ambassador to Bhutan, Sandeep Arya, said the festival is “an unprecedented event” and that the presence of the Indian Prime Minister adds great meaning to it.

The Prime Minister’s trip also coincides with the exposition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha from India. PM Modi will offer prayers to these holy relics at Tashichhodzong in Thimphu, reflecting the deep spiritual connection shared by the two countries.

According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, India and Bhutan enjoy a “special and time-tested partnership” based on mutual trust, understanding, and cultural closeness. The visit, the ministry said, will provide an opportunity for both sides to discuss new ways to strengthen cooperation and share views on regional and global issues.

Ambassador Arya also described the visit as “highly significant,” noting that it coincides with both national celebrations and a major spiritual gathering, symbolising the deep friendship and shared values between India and Bhutan.

Written by OpIndia Staff
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