Did PM Modi Engage with Bhutan's Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening bilateral ties through high-level meetings.
- Inauguration of significant energy projects showcasing collaboration.
- Celebration of cultural events to enhance spiritual connections.
- Commitment to mutual development and regional stability.
- Deepening ties in technology, defense, and security sectors.
Thimphu, Nov 12 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a meeting with Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the esteemed Fourth Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan, in Thimphu on Wednesday.
In the aftermath of this significant meeting, the Prime Minister is slated to participate in the Kalchakra ceremony, following which he will head back to New Delhi, wrapping up his two-day visit that aims to enhance bilateral relations and reaffirm dedication to the Neighbourhood First Policy.
Previously, on Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi took part in the festivities celebrating the 70th birth anniversary of Bhutan's Fourth King, emphasizing the lasting friendship and spiritual ties between India and Bhutan.
Jigme Singye Wangchuck, born on November 11, 1955, served as Bhutan's Fourth Druk Gyalpo from 1972 to 2006 and is revered as one of Bhutan's most insightful and beloved kings.
During his reign, Bhutan experienced modernization, enhanced national unity, and embraced a unique happiness-based philosophy that received global acclaim.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi and Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck engaged in comprehensive discussions covering a broad spectrum of collaboration, including energy, capacity building, connectivity, technology, defense, and security.
Subsequent to the delegation-level talks, the two leaders jointly inaugurated the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydroelectric project, a significant collaboration between India and Bhutan that highlights the strengthening energy partnership between the two nations.
“Had a very productive meeting with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan. We explored the full spectrum of India-Bhutan relations,” Prime Minister Modi shared on social media.
“We discussed collaboration in sectors like energy, capacity building, connectivity, technology, defense, and security. India is honored to be a crucial partner in Bhutan's development journey,” he added.
Emphasizing the centuries-old cultural and spiritual connections between the two Himalayan neighbors, Prime Minister Modi joined the Bhutanese King on Tuesday to seek blessings from the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha at Thimphu's Tashichhodzong.
The relics, housed at the Grand Kuenrey Hall, were sent from India for display as a symbolic gesture to commemorate the Fourth King's 70th birth anniversary and the Global Peace Prayer Festival organized by the Royal Government of Bhutan.