PM Modi departs for Bhutan on two-day visit

Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi traveled to Bhutan on Tuesday to participate in the 70th birthday celebrations of the country’s fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will meet Bhutan’s current King, Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck, his father and predecessor, the fourth king, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.

Speaking before his departure, Modi expressed confidence that the visit would strengthen bilateral ties and promote shared progress and prosperity.

“I am honoured to join the people of Bhutan as they celebrate the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King,” Modi said.

He highlighted the display of India’s Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha at the Global Peace Prayer Festival in Bhutan as an example of the two nations’ deep-rooted spiritual and civilizational ties.

The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project during the visit, marking a major milestone in India-Bhutan energy cooperation.

He described the energy partnership as a cornerstone of the Neighbourhood First Policy and a model for exemplary friendly relations between neighbouring countries.

On X, Modi shared updates from his visit, stating, “Leaving for Bhutan, where I will attend various programmes during the 70th birthday celebrations of His Majesty the Fourth King. I will hold talks with His Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth King, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. This visit will add new vigour to our bilateral relations.”

India and Bhutan continue to maintain exemplary friendship and cooperation, grounded in mutual trust, understanding, and goodwill. Through initiatives like the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project, both nations aim to expand their energy partnership and foster sustainable development for the region.