India and Bhutan have strengthened their bilateral ties by signing six agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation across various sectors, ranging from energy to space. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bhutan underscored the significance that New Delhi attaches to its relationship with Thimphu, especially amidst China’s efforts to resolve a border dispute with the Himalayan nation.
The visit, originally scheduled earlier but postponed due to adverse weather conditions, exemplifies the exceptional nature of the bond shared between the two nations. Prime Minister Modi’s decision to visit Bhutan despite the announcement of election dates reflects India’s unwavering commitment to nurturing its ties with its closest neighbour.
Upon arrival at Paro airport, Prime Minister Modi was greeted with a warm embrace by his Bhutanese counterpart, Tshering Tobgay, signifying the personal rapport and camaraderie between the leaders of the two countries. The gesture of hospitality was further extended when Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck conferred upon Prime Minister Modi the prestigious Order of Druk Gyalpo, the highest civilian honor in Bhutan, highlighting the deep-rooted respect and admiration that Bhutan holds for its Indian counterpart.
Bilateral Talks
During their discussions held over a working lunch in the capital city of Thimphu, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Tobgay reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the multifaceted bilateral relationship between India and Bhutan. They deliberated on various aspects of cooperation, including renewable energy, agriculture, environment, forestry, youth exchanges, and tourism, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the partnership.
In line with the spirit of mutual cooperation, both countries exchanged memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements in key areas such as energy, digital connectivity, and space. The MoU on petroleum, oil, lubricants, and related products will facilitate the smooth supply of essential commodities from India to Bhutan through agreed border points, further deepening economic ties between the two nations.
The agreement on a Joint Plan of Action on Space Cooperation lays out a strategic roadmap for collaborative efforts in space exploration, including exchange programs and training initiatives. Notably, the successful launch of a satellite jointly developed by India and Bhutan in November 2022 marked a significant milestone in space cooperation between the two countries.
Additionally, both sides reached agreements on establishing rail links and streamlining regulatory frameworks related to food safety and standards, thereby facilitating trade and enhancing connectivity. The MoU on energy conservation underscores India’s commitment to assisting Bhutan in improving energy efficiency and promoting sustainable development practices.
Furthermore, the MoU on cooperation in reference standards, pharmacopoeia, vigilance, and testing of medicinal products aims to strengthen regulatory mechanisms and ensure the quality and safety of pharmaceuticals in both countries. This agreement will pave the way for enhanced collaboration in healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, benefiting the citizens of both India and Bhutan.
In the area of sports and youth affairs, the signing of an MoU reflects the shared commitment to fostering cultural exchanges and promoting grassroots sports development. Moreover, the renewal of the peering arrangement between the National Knowledge Network of India and Druk Research and Education Network of Bhutan underscores the importance of leveraging technology for educational collaboration and knowledge sharing.
The reciprocal recognition and appreciation demonstrated during Prime Minister Modi’s visit, concluding in the conferment of the Order of Druk Gyalpo by Bhutan’s King, reaffirms the deep-seated friendship and strategic partnership between India and Bhutan.
However, amidst the strengthening of bilateral ties, the visit also took place against the backdrop of ongoing efforts by Bhutan and China to resolve their border dispute. India has been closely monitoring these developments, given the potential implications for regional security dynamics, especially in sensitive areas like the Doklam plateau.
India’s steadfast support for Bhutan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remains unwavering, with New Delhi continuing to provide crucial assistance for Bhutan’s development initiatives.
“Neighbourhood First’’ Policy
India’s commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” policy is exemplified by its extensive development assistance and strategic collaboration with Bhutan, aimed at fostering socio-economic progress and regional stability. As India pledges further support for Bhutan’s development endeavours, including considerations for an economic stimulus program, the enduring friendship between the two nations is poised to reach new heights in the years to come.