New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Bhutan’s Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in Thimphu on Wednesday and discussed a wide range of issues aimed at deepening the longstanding partnership between the two countries. The meeting was held as part of Modi’s two-day visit to Bhutan, which focused on enhancing cooperation and celebrating the shared spiritual and cultural heritage of both nations.
The Prime Minister extended warm greetings to the Fourth King on his 70th birthday and conveyed India’s best wishes for his health and well-being. He expressed gratitude for the King’s visionary leadership and his role in fostering strong relations between India and Bhutan. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the close friendship that continues to shape the two Himalayan neighbours’ partnership.
Earlier, Modi joined Bhutan’s current King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and the Fourth King at the Kalachakra initiation ceremony held at Changlimithang Stadium, as part of the Global Peace Prayer Festival. The ceremony was led by Je Khenpo, Bhutan’s Chief Abbot.
During the visit, both sides held detailed talks covering key areas such as hydropower, technology, capacity building, connectivity, defence, and security. As a highlight of the visit, Modi and King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck inaugurated the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydroelectric project, a significant milestone in India-Bhutan energy cooperation.
“Had a very good meeting with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan. We covered the full range of India-Bhutan relations,” the Prime Minister said in a post, emphasizing India’s pride in being a key partner in Bhutan’s development journey.
Modi also joined the Bhutanese King in seeking blessings from the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha at Thimphu’s Tashichhodzong. The relics were sent from India as a special tribute to commemorate the Fourth King’s 70th birth anniversary and the Global Peace Prayer Festival.
Prime Minister Modi concluded his visit on Wednesday, reaffirming India’s commitment to the Neighbourhood First policy and its enduring friendship with Bhutan.
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