His Majesty The King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema Wangchuck arrived in the Indian capital on Thursday for a two-day official visit aimed at bolstering the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations. The royal couple was warmly welcomed by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who underscored the importance of the visit in further strengthening the “unique bonds of friendship” shared by India and Bhutan.
In a social media post, Dr. Jaishankar expressed his honor in receiving the Bhutanese monarch. “Honoured to welcome His Majesty the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, on his arrival in New Delhi today. His visit will further strengthen our unique bonds of friendship,” he wrote.
Accompanied by senior officials from the Bhutanese government, King Jigme Khesar is scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit will also include discussions with Jaishankar and other senior Indian officials, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
In a statement, the MEA emphasized the extraordinary nature of the bilateral relationship between the two nations, describing it as one characterized by mutual trust and understanding. “India and Bhutan enjoy unique ties of friendship and cooperation. The visit provides an opportunity to review the entire gamut of bilateral cooperation and further advance our exemplary partnership across diverse sectors,” the statement read.
Bhutan’s Gratitude for India’s Support
The visit comes days after Bhutan’s Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Employment, Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji, lauded India as a steadfast partner and an inspiration for Bhutan’s development. Speaking at the 29th Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Partnership Summit in New Delhi, Dorji praised the robust collaboration between the two countries, highlighting India’s role in enabling Bhutan’s aspirations.
“India’s role as Bhutan’s closest partner is not only a pillar of support but also an inspiration,” Dorji said. He emphasized that the trust, shared values, and spirit of collaboration between the two nations serve as a foundation for Bhutan’s journey toward growth and transformation.
Dorji also acknowledged India’s leadership on the global stage under Prime Minister Modi, describing it as a source of encouragement for Bhutan. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India has emerged as a global leader for countries like Bhutan. India stands not only as a trusted neighbour but also as a partner in our journey of growth and transformation, offering both inspiration and support,” he noted.
A Vision for Shared Prosperity
At the summit, Dorji highlighted Bhutan’s transformative initiatives, supported by India, to achieve its long-term development goals, which include becoming a high-income nation while adhering to principles of Gross National Happiness and environmental sustainability.
India’s role in fostering innovation and inclusivity across Asia and the world was also lauded, with the CII Partnership Summit being cited as a prime example of India’s commitment to shared prosperity. “It is this spirit of collaboration and mutual growth that excites the two countries,” Dorji said.
As King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck continues his visit, both nations are expected to deepen their cooperation in areas ranging from trade and investment to environmental conservation, reflecting a shared vision of growth, sustainability, and regional leadership.
