Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi warmly received His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Her Majesty Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck in New Delhi today, reaffirming the strong ties between India and Bhutan. The meeting aimed to strengthen the enduring partnership across various sectors and enhance the mutual cooperation between the two countries.
State of Bilateral Relations:
During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi and His Majesty the King expressed their satisfaction with the current state of bilateral relations, emphasizing the key areas of development cooperation, trade and investment, clean energy, and space technology. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to further expanding these partnerships to benefit the people of both nations.
Gelephu Mindfulness City Initiative:
A significant discussion focused on the Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative, a visionary project led by His Majesty the King, aimed at advancing Bhutan’s development. This initiative seeks to strengthen economic connectivity with India, particularly in the border areas, enhancing regional cooperation and fostering growth.
Commitment to Bhutan’s Development:
Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to Bhutan’s economic development, highlighting the doubling of India’s development assistance to Bhutan for the 13th Five-Year Plan. This gesture underscores India’s support for Bhutan’s aspirations for progress, prosperity, and happiness. His Majesty the King expressed heartfelt gratitude for India’s unwavering support.
High-Level Exchange and Strengthening Ties:
The meeting concluded with a lunch hosted by Prime Minister Modi in honor of Their Majesties, reflecting the warmth and camaraderie that characterizes the India-Bhutan relationship. This high-level exchange is a testament to the mutual trust, respect, and understanding that defines the enduring partnership between the two countries.
Conclusion:
Today’s meeting marks another important step in strengthening the historic and multifaceted ties between India and Bhutan. The collaborative efforts in areas such as development, clean energy, and connectivity are expected to lay a solid foundation for the continued progress and prosperity of both nations.
