Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Bhutan, scheduled for November 11th and 12th, promises to significantly bolster bilateral ties between the two neighboring nations. The visit aims to strengthen the special bond of friendship and cooperation, following the established practice of regular high-level dialogues. A central feature of the visit will be the inauguration of the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, a prime example of successful India-Bhutan collaboration. Prime Minister Modi will also be granted an audience with His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and will attend the 70th birth anniversary commemorations of the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Meetings with Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay are also on the agenda. The visit will also include a significant spiritual component, as Prime Minister Modi will offer prayers to the Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha and participate in the Global Peace Prayer Festival. This engagement provides a vital platform to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation and to exchange views on matters of mutual concern. Progress on India-Bhutan railway initiatives, including the Kokrajhar-Gelephu and Banarhat-Samtse lines, will be a key point of discussion, highlighting India’s role as Bhutan’s largest development partner and its commitment to infrastructure development that benefits the region.
