New Delhi, Nov 11: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday embarked on a two-day visit to Bhutan to participate in the 70th birthday celebrations of the fourth king of the Himalayan nation, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
During the visit, Modi is scheduled to meet King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck, the fourth king, and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. “I am confident that my visit will further deepen our bonds of friendship and strengthen our efforts towards shared progress and prosperity,” Modi said ahead of his departure.
Highlighting the spiritual and civilisational ties between the two countries, Modi noted the exposition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha during the Global Peace Prayer Festival in Bhutan. The visit will also mark a significant milestone in India-Bhutan energy cooperation with the inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project.
“Our partnership is a key pillar of our Neighbourhood First Policy and a model for exemplary friendly relations between neighbouring countries,” Modi said, emphasizing the long-standing trust, understanding, and goodwill between India and Bhutan.
In a post on X, Modi added, “Leaving for Bhutan, where I will attend various programmes. This visit comes at a time when Bhutan is marking the 70th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth King. I will be holding talks with His Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth King, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.”