Bhutan’s Prime Minister, Dasho Tshering Tobgay, is set to embark on an official visit to India from March 14 to 18, following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit marks Prime Minister Tobgay’s first overseas trip since assuming office in January 2024. Accompanying him will be key ministers from Bhutan, including the Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister, Energy and Natural Resources Minister, and Industry, Commerce, and Employment Minister, along with senior officials from the Royal Government of Bhutan.
During his stay in India, Prime Minister Tobgay is scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu and engage in bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and other dignitaries from India will also call on the visiting Bhutanese Prime Minister. As part of his itinerary, PM Tobgay will extend his visit to Mumbai.
This visit provides an opportunity for both nations to assess the progress of their unique partnership and explore ways to enhance the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation. Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra’s official visit to Bhutan in January laid the groundwork for continued diplomatic exchanges between the two countries.
The India-Bhutan relationship is characterized by exemplary ties rooted in trust, goodwill, and mutual understanding across various levels. Regular political and official exchanges are integral to this special friendship and cooperation. Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Bhutan in 2014 marked his first overseas visit after assuming office, and he undertook a State visit to Bhutan in August 2019 during his second term.
His Majesty the King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s visit to India in September 2022 further strengthened ties, while a Joint Statement titled “A Framework for Expanded India-Bhutan Partnership” was issued during his visit to Delhi in April 2023. This document outlined concrete areas to advance the India-Bhutan partnership. The King’s subsequent visits to India in November 2023 and to the states of Assam and Maharashtra underscored efforts to broaden friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
