Bhutan embraced the arrival of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with open arms as he landed at Paro International Airport this morning. The visit, aimed at bolstering the longstanding ties between India and Bhutan, commenced with Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay extending a gracious welcome to PM Modi upon his arrival. The picturesque setting of Paro International Airport provided the backdrop for a ceremonial Guard of Honour, an emblematic gesture of the enduring friendship shared between the two nations.
Scheduled to conclude on Saturday, PM Modi’s visit holds significant promise, highlighted by the anticipation surrounding the conferral of Bhutan’s highest civilian award, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo, upon the esteemed guest. This accolade serves as a testament to the profound respect and admiration that Bhutan holds for its Indian counterparts.
#WATCH | Paro, Bhutan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Guard of Honour after his arrival at Bhutan's Paro International Airport pic.twitter.com/xwX50Y2cjJ
— ANI (@ANI) March 22, 2024
Originally slated for Thursday, PM Modi’s visit encountered a brief delay due to adverse weather conditions, underscoring the unpredictable nature of Himalayan climates. However, undeterred by such challenges, PM Modi expressed his enthusiasm for the visit, emphasizing its importance in fortifying the strategic partnership between India and Bhutan.
In his own words, PM Modi articulated his aspirations for the trip: “On the way to Bhutan, where I will be attending various programmes aimed at further cementing the India-Bhutan partnership. I look forward to talks with Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay,” as shared on the X platform.
The excitement surrounding PM Modi’s visit resonates not only within governmental circles but also among the Bhutanese populace. Preparations for the visit were evident in the bustling scenes captured by the ANI news agency, offering a glimpse into the palpable anticipation prevailing at Paro International Airport.
#Watch | Thimphu, #Bhutan: On PM #NarendraModi's visit to Bhutan, a local resident, Ratna Maya Gurung, says, "We are glad to have PM Modi here. We already have a strong relationship with our neighbouring country, India. This visit is going to make it more strong…" pic.twitter.com/FWBkl3TH9a
— The Times Of India (@timesofindia) March 22, 2024
Acknowledging the significance of this diplomatic engagement, the Ministry of External Affairs of India emphasized the enduring partnership between the two nations, rooted in “mutual trust, understanding, and goodwill.” PM Modi’s visit is poised to serve as a platform for constructive dialogue, enabling both sides to exchange perspectives on bilateral and regional matters of mutual interest. Moreover, it presents an opportune moment to explore avenues for further collaboration, with a keen focus on enhancing the well-being of citizens from both nations.
The recent visit of Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay to India, between 14-18 March, further solidified the foundation of cooperation between the two nations. During this visit, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting Bhutan’s developmental endeavors, pledging increased assistance for the country’s 13th five-year plan. The proposed economic stimulus program and developmental aid underscore India’s unwavering dedication to fostering infrastructural development and bolstering connectivity within Bhutan.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit unfolds, it symbolizes more than just a diplomatic rendezvous; it embodies the enduring camaraderie and shared aspirations that define the relationship between India and Bhutan. With each interaction and exchange, the ties between these two nations grow stronger, laying the groundwork for a brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come.
