India-Bhutan Ties Strengthen: PM Modi Backs Bhutan's Gelephu Mindfulness City, Hydropower Projects In High-Level Talks With King Wangchuck

India and Bhutan on Thursday (5 December) reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening their “exemplary” partnership across all sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated New Delhi’s strong support for Bhutan’s economic development during the visit of Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

The Bhutanese King, accompanied by Queen Jetsun Pema, held discussions with PM Modi, focusing on collaborative efforts in hydropower, urban planning, connectivity, trade, investment, and space technology.

The two sides emphasised the importance of bilateral projects, including the Gelephu Mindfulness City Project and hydropower initiatives.

A joint statement issued after the meeting highlighted PM Modi’s assurance of “India’s continued support for the Gelephu Mindfulness City Project, which will bring prosperity and well-being in Bhutan and also the border areas, and further strengthen economy and investment linkages between the two countries.”

The leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress of the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydro power project, noting that it was “nearing completion.”

This visit holds significance against the backdrop of regional developments, with India facing diplomatic challenges in its neighborhood.

In Nepal, PM K P Sharma Oli prioritised ties with Beijing, signing a new Framework for Belt and Road Cooperation.

In Bangladesh, India’s relations with Dhaka’s interim government remain tense following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster.

King Wangchuck’s visit also included discussions on regional and global issues of mutual interest, reinforcing India and Bhutan’s shared vision for economic progress and stability in the Himalayan region.

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