Modi and Bhutan’s Fourth King Enhance India-Bhutan Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan on November 12, 2023, to discuss initiatives aimed at strengthening the longstanding friendship between India and Bhutan. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation across various sectors, including energy, trade, technology, and connectivity.

During their discussions, Prime Minister Modi commended the progress of the Gelephu Mindfulness City Project, highlighting its significance in alignment with India’s Act East Policy. This project is seen as a crucial step towards improving bilateral relations and fostering economic growth in the region.

The day prior, on November 11, Modi participated in a ceremonial event alongside King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck at Thimphu’s Tashichhodzong. They sought blessings from the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha, which were sent from India to commemorate the Fourth King’s 70th birth anniversary and the Global Peace Prayer Festival. The relics are currently housed in the Grand Kuenrey Hall, serving as a symbol of the deep civilizational and cultural ties shared by the two nations.

The warm reception by local monks and citizens during this event underscored the mutual respect and affection between India and Bhutan. As part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the Je Khenpo, Bhutan’s spiritual leader, presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Bhutanese temple in Rajgir, India. The temple, consecrated in September 2023, further emphasizes the cultural connections between the two countries.

In a notable gesture, a statue of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, regarded as the founder of the Bhutanese nation, was loaned by the Asiatic Society in Kolkata. This act symbolizes the shared heritage and mutual respect that characterizes the India-Bhutan relationship.

Prime Minister Modi’s association with Bhutan has included several significant visits. His first trip abroad after taking office in 2014 was to Bhutan, followed by another visit in August 2019 during his second term. In March 2024, he received the Order of the Druk Gyalpo, Bhutan’s highest civilian honor, from King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. This award recognizes Modi’s vital role in strengthening India-Bhutan ties and elevating India’s status on the global stage.

While receiving the honor, Modi emphasized that the award belongs to the 1.4 billion people of Bharat, reflecting the enduring friendship between India and Bhutan. This sentiment highlights the collaborative spirit that both nations continue to nurture, as they work together towards mutual growth and development.