Prime Minister Narendra Modi has started a two-day state visit to Bhutan. His schedule includes attending the Global Peace Prayer Festival organised by the Royal Government of Bhutan, alongside other engagements strengthening bilateral relations.
Before departing, PM Modi said, “It is my honour to join Bhutan as they celebrate the 70th birthday of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King. The exposition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics from India reflects our two countries’ deep-rooted civilisational and spiritual ties.”
During his visit, PM Modi will meet Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, while also attending celebrations for the Fourth King’s 70th birthday, strengthening diplomatic and friendly ties.
On Tuesday, PM Modi will attend events at Changlimethang, meet the King of Bhutan, participate in a Memorandum of Understanding exchange, and witness the inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project, marking a busy first day.
On the second day, the Prime Minister will meet Bhutan’s Fourth King and attend the Kalchakra ceremony before returning to New Delhi, continuing diplomatic engagements that reinforce India-Bhutan cooperation and spiritual partnership.
The visit will also mark the inauguration of the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, jointly developed by India and Bhutan. PM Modi said the milestone will deepen energy cooperation and further strengthen shared progress and prosperity.
PM Modi’s visit coincides with the exposition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha from India. He will offer prayers at Tashichhodzong in Thimphu, highlighting the spiritual connection between India and Bhutan.
The visit also provides an opportunity for India and Bhutan to further enhance their unique partnership, with views on regional and global issues exchanged, as a MEA release notes, while reinforcing mutual trust, goodwill and people-to-people ties.
Meanwhile, India’s Ambassador to Bhutan, Sandeep Arya, told ANI that the visit coincides with the unprecedented Global Peace Prayer Festival and the Fourth King’s 70th birthday, highlighting the close partnership and shared commitment to peace and happiness.
