Bhutan’s King Jigme Wangchuk to begin 3-day India visit today, review bilateral ties

Bhutan King Jigme Wangchuk will begin a three-day visit to India on Monday.
During the king’s visit, both parties will assess bilateral cooperation and work to advance the bilateral partnership. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the Bhutan king would be accompanied by Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji and other senior officials.

The visit of King Jigme Wangchuk will provide an opportunity for both India and Bhutan to assess the entire scope of bilateral collaboration, since the two nations enjoy a particular friendship and cooperation defined by mutual trust and understanding.

The visit of Bhutan’s King is at the request of President Droupadi Murmu.
His visit is in keeping with the two countries’ long-standing tradition of regular high-level exchanges, and he will see President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his stay.

Foreign Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and other senior officials will also meet with Bhutan’s King.
India has long been Bhutan’s most important trading partner, and it remains the country’s key source of investment.

The Indian government formalised the establishment of seven new trade routes for Bhutan’s bilateral and transit commerce with India in November 2021, fresh market access was allowed for the formal export of 12 agri-products from Bhutan to India, and several special export exceptions/quotas were also provided.
Since the early 1960s, when Bhutan established its Five Year Plans, India has provided economic aid to Bhutan’s socioeconomic growth.