Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s eagerly awaited visit to Bhutan finally commenced with a warm welcome from Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay at Paro Airport. Prior to his departure, PM Modi shared his anticipation for the trip on X, expressing his eagerness to engage in various programs aimed at strengthening the enduring partnership between India and Bhutan. He specifically looked forward to discussions with His Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.
Originally scheduled from March 21 to March 22, Modi’s visit had to be postponed due to adverse weather conditions in the Himalayan nation. However, new dates were swiftly arranged through diplomatic channels, ensuring the continuation of this significant diplomatic engagement.
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In anticipation of Modi’s arrival, Bhutan adorned itself with posters and billboards extending a warm welcome to the esteemed guest, underscoring the significance of the bilateral ties between the two nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the visit as an opportune moment for both sides to engage in discussions on various bilateral and regional issues, with a focus on further enhancing their exemplary partnership for the mutual benefit of their peoples.
This visit comes shortly after Prime Minister Tobgay’s visit to India from March 14 to March 18, which marked his first foreign visit since assuming office in January. During Tobgay’s visit, Modi reiterated India’s commitment to bolstering support for Bhutan’s 13th five-year plan, including considering requests for economic stimulus programs. Furthermore, India pledged development assistance aimed at enhancing infrastructure, connectivity, and various sectors vital for Bhutan’s development.
A joint statement issued after Modi and Tobgay’s meeting reaffirmed the strong bonds of friendship between the two nations, acknowledging them as a source of regional strength. Modi reiterated India’s unwavering support for Bhutan’s aspirations to achieve high-income status, aligning with the vision of the Bhutanese king.
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Expressing gratitude, Tobgay thanked the Indian government for its generous development assistance of ₹5,000 crore for Bhutan’s last five-year plan. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties, emphasizing cooperation in areas such as infrastructure development, connectivity, and socio-economic sectors like agriculture, healthcare, education, and cultural preservation.