Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, 17 August, held talks with Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering during which the two leaders discussed steps to further expand the bilateral partnership across several sectors as the two nations signed 10 MoUs.
"We had a comprehensive meeting, where we deliberated on the relations between India and Bhutan. There is great scope to further improve economic and cultural ties between our nations," PM Modi said.
He received a red-carpet welcome as he arrived in Bhutan on a two-day state visit. This is Modi's second visit to Bhutan and the first since his re-election.
“Who will not want a friend and a neighbour like Bhutan. It is an honour for us that India is a part of the development of Bhutan,” he said.
Kumar said the MoUs exchange will take place at Simtoka Dzong, built in 1629 by Shabdrung Namgyal, which functions as a monastic and administrative centre and is one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan.
Bhutanese PM Tshering praised PM Modi for acknowledging and responding to all the students, teachers and villagers who greeted the PM on his arrival. “His affection for children is clear and visible,” he said in a tweet.
In his departure statement issued in New Delhi on Friday, 16 August the prime minister said his visit to the Himalayan nation in the beginning of the current term reflects the high importance his government attaches to New Delhi's relations with Bhutan – a "trusted friend and neighbour".
He expressed confidence that his visit will promote India’s “time-tested and valued friendship” with Bhutan and consolidate it further for the prosperous future and progress of the people of both the countries.
During the visit, Modi would hold talks with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and his Bhutanese counterpart on the entire gamut of bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Modi will also address young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan.
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