Thimphu, Nov 11 (NationPress) Emphasizing India's pride as a vital partner in Bhutan's developmental trajectory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck on Tuesday. The discussion focused on collaboration in various domains such as energy, capacity enhancement, connectivity, technology, defense, and security.

In addition to sharing perspectives on strengthening bilateral relations, the two leaders also addressed regional and global issues of shared concern. King Wangchuck expressed condolences concerning the tragic loss of life from the Delhi blast.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his gratitude for the visionary leadership of the successive Druk Gyalpos (the Kings), which has been instrumental in fostering the close friendship and collaborative spirit between the two nations. The Bhutanese monarch acknowledged the invaluable support provided by the Government of India in facilitating Bhutan's socio-economic advancement.

“I had a highly productive meeting with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan. We discussed the full spectrum of India-Bhutan relations, covering cooperation in energy, capacity building, connectivity, technology, defense, and security. India takes immense pride in being a key partner in Bhutan’s developmental journey,” PM Modi shared on X after the meeting.

The two dignitaries paid their respects before the Holy Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha from India, which are currently housed at the Grand Kuenrey Hall, Tashichhodzong. The exhibition of these sacred relics in Thimphu coincides with the 70th birth anniversary of the Fourth King and the Global Peace Prayer Festival organized by Bhutan for worldwide peace and happiness.

Both leaders inaugurated the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, a significant milestone in the thriving and mutually beneficial energy partnership between India and Bhutan, which has brought substantial advantages to the daily lives of people in both nations.

They also observed the signing of three memorandums of understanding (MoUs) in the fields of renewable energy, mental health services, and healthcare, aimed at further enhancing bilateral cooperation. On this occasion, the Government of India declared a concessional Line of Credit of INR 4000 crores for Bhutan to support energy projects, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Earlier that day, following his arrival in Thimphu from New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi participated in the celebrations marking the 70th birthday of Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan, at the Changlimithang Stadium. During the event, King Wangchuck led a collective prayer in memory of the Delhi blast victims.

“The Prime Minister addressed the audience, extending the warm regards of the Indian populace to His Majesty the Fourth King and the people of Bhutan. He underscored the transformative era of His Majesty’s reign, which witnessed Bhutan's evolution into a modern nation-state and a constitutional democratic monarchy. Under the Fourth King’s guidance, Bhutan pioneered the innovative concept of Gross National Happiness, integrating economic growth with sustainability,” the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) reported.

“The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan for his invaluable contributions to the enduring friendship between India and Bhutan. His Majesty has personally influenced the India-Bhutan partnership across all sectors of bilateral cooperation. The Prime Minister emphasized that this relationship will continue to thrive under His Majesty’s wise guidance. He also praised the vision and unwavering efforts of His Majesty the King of Bhutan in carrying forward the remarkable legacy of His Majesty the Fourth King, highlighting Bhutan’s impressive progress under His Majesty’s leadership and the lasting friendship between India and Bhutan,” the statement added.

PM Modi conveyed heartfelt thanks to the people of Bhutan for their compassionate gesture of solidarity with India during the program. In light of the tragic events in Delhi, the citizens of Bhutan offered a unique prayer for the victims and their families. The Prime Minister recognized this profound act of empathy and unity, stating, “I will always remember this gesture.”