Energy, connectivity take centre stage during Modi’s Bhutan visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday concluded a two-day state visit to Bhutan, reaffirming India’s support for the Himalayan nation’s development and unveiling a series of initiatives to deepen bilateral cooperation in energy, connectivity and cultural ties.

During the visit undertaken at the invitation of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Modi joined the Bhutanese people in celebrating the 70th birth anniversary of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, as guest of honour at Thimphu’s Changlimithang Stadium. He also participated in the ongoing Global Peace Prayer Festival, where sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha from India were put on public display.

In his meetings with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Bhutan PM Dasho Tshering Tobgay, Modi reaffirmed India’s support for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan and Economic Stimulus Programme.

He announced the setting up of an immigration check post at Hatisar in Assam to facilitate access to the proposed Gelephu Mindfulness City — a flagship initiative of the Bhutanese King.

Besides, the two sides jointly inaugurated the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, marking another milestone in their long-standing energy partnership. They also agreed to expedite work on the 1,200 MW Punatsangchhu-I project and welcomed India’s concessional line of credit of Rs 4,000 crore for Bhutan’s energy sector.

King Jigme Khesar also conveyed his condolences over the Delhi car blast, expressing solidarity with the victims and their families.

The two sides signed three key MoUs on renewable energy, healthcare cooperation and mental health linkages between Bhutan’s PEMA Secretariat and India’s NIMHANS. The leaders also lauded growing collaboration in STEM, fintech and space, including progress on UPI Phase-II that will allow Bhutanese visitors to make QR code payments in India.

Officials described the visit as a reaffirmation of the “time-tested, trust-based partnership” between the two neighbours, rooted in mutual respect, shared values and people-to-people connections.