How Will PM Modi's Visit to Bhutan Strengthen Bilateral Ties?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening Energy Partnerships: PM Modi's visit aims to enhance energy cooperation between India and Bhutan.
- Celebration of Royal Milestone: The visit coincides with the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan.
- Cultural Significance: The exhibition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics showcases the shared Buddhist heritage.
- Key Diplomatic Meetings: PM Modi is set to meet the Bhutanese King and Prime Minister.
- Historical Context: This visit marks another chapter in the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
New Delhi, Nov 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a two-day journey to Bhutan, focusing on enhancing energy collaborations and expressing optimism that this visit will further solidify bilateral relations.
In his statement before departure, PM Modi remarked, "I am set to visit the Kingdom of Bhutan from November 11 to 12, 2025. It is a privilege to celebrate with the people of Bhutan as they commemorate the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King."
This visit aligns with the exhibition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha, which will be showcased in Bhutan. PM Modi will also pay homage to the Holy Relics at Tashichhodzong in Thimphu and engage in the Global Peace Prayer Festival organized by the Royal Government of Bhutan.
He noted, "The display of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics from India during the Global Peace Prayer Festival highlights the profound civilizational and spiritual bonds between our nations."
The Prime Minister further stated that this trip will signify a significant achievement in their successful energy collaboration, marked by the inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project.
PM Modi expressed enthusiasm about his meetings with the Bhutanese King, the Fourth King, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.
"I am optimistic that my visit will enhance our friendship and bolster our joint efforts for mutual progress and prosperity," he added.
Buddhism serves as a common heritage between India and Bhutan, with numerous Bhutanese pilgrims visiting sites in India such as Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Nalanda, Sikkim, Udayagiri, and Sarnath.
"India and Bhutan have a remarkable friendship and collaboration, founded on profound mutual trust, understanding, and goodwill. Our partnership is a cornerstone of our Neighbourhood First Policy and a benchmark for excellent relations among neighboring nations," PM Modi emphasized.
Prime Minister Modi previously visited Bhutan shortly after taking office in 2014 and made another official visit in August 2019 during his second term.
He also undertook a significant State Visit to Bhutan in March 2024, where he was awarded the 'Order of the Druk Gyalpo', Bhutan's highest civilian honor, by the King of Bhutan in a public ceremony at the Tendrelthang, Thimphu.
PM Modi became the first foreign leader to receive this prestigious accolade.