Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at Paro International Airport on Friday for an official two-day state visit to Bhutan. He was warmly received by his Bhutanese counterpart, Tshering Tobgay, who greeted him with a tight hug. Later, PM Modi was accorded a guard of honor by the Bhutanese armed forces.
PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan, scheduled from March 22-23, follows elaborate preparations by concerned authorities at Paro International Airport. Posters of PM Modi and his Bhutanese counterpart were displayed at the airport, which was decorated with flowers and Rangoli to welcome him. A red carpet and colorful flags reflecting Bhutanese culture were also arranged, and airport security was enhanced for his safe arrival.
During his visit, PM Modi is expected to participate in various programs aimed at strengthening the India-Bhutan bilateral partnership. His visit was initially postponed due to inclement weather, with new dates being finalized through diplomatic channels on both sides.
India and Bhutan share a unique and strong bilateral relationship founded on mutual trust and goodwill. This relationship, formalized in 1968 with the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation signed in 1949 and renewed in 2007, has been nurtured through high-level exchanges over the years.
King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan has made several visits to India, emphasizing the close ties between the two nations. PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan in 2019 was a significant milestone, leading to the launch of major bilateral projects to enhance economic cooperation and connectivity.
The recent visit of Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay of Bhutan to India in March 2024 further underscored the commitment of both countries to strengthening bilateral relations across various domains, including development cooperation and economic ties.