Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent trip to Bhutan is one more evidence that friendship and mutual respect, which are the main traits of the two neighbors’ relationship, are not only words but facts as well. The visit was definitely the consolidation of India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and also a reaffirmation to Bhutan that it is the centre of that policy.
PM Modi was welcomed by traditional Bhutanese hospitality and great ceremonies. The ceremonies, among which were also a cultural program, a performance of traditional Bhutanese archery, and a celebration of a special Bhutanese honor, reflected historical and cultural Indian and Bhutanese ties. Modi tremendously interacted with Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck not only about energy, but also about connectivity, education, and technology.
The visit of the PM to Bhutan was followed by the most significant majority of MoUs. The MoUs were about the commitments of the parties to collaboration in areas such as infrastructure development, hydropower projects, and digital connectivity. Financial aid from India through to the implementation of Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan, with both money and technical assistance, is a promise that India makes and keeps.
PM Modi committed to initiatives that would bring the youth and extend the exchange programs, not only to the increase of the scholarships but also, through adding skill development, to the Bhutanese students in India. Meanwhile, the two leaders discussed the mutual benefits of sustainable tourism and environmental conservation for Bhutanese philosophy of “Gross National Happiness” and India’s developmental vision.
First of all, the chief minister expressed their joint statement through an analogy of the Indo-Bhutan relationship to an entity “that, besides transactions, trust and shared values form the basis”. Additionally, the timing of the visit was the most significant factor in an emotional way as the two countries were experiencing a changing regional landscape.
Besides the diplomatic successes, the visit to Bhutan was a reaffirmation, not only of the bond between the two nations but also, of the shared culture, spirituality, and traditions. Power projects and people-to-people initiatives are only a few of the ways in which India and Bhutan are making it clear that geography and goodwill can together be not only a foundation for friendship but also of mutual growth.
