Thimphu [Bhutan]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in Thimphu, where the two leaders discussed ways to further deepen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between India and Bhutan, along with key regional and global issues of mutual interest, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.
The King expressed condolences over the loss of lives in the recent blast in Delhi. Prime Minister Modi, in turn, lauded the visionary leadership of successive Druk Gyalpos (Bhutanese Kings) for their role in nurturing the close ties of friendship and partnership between the two nations.
According to the MEA, King Wangchuck also conveyed his gratitude for India’s continued and invaluable support toward Bhutan’s socio-economic development.
During the visit, both leaders offered prayers before the Holy Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha from India, currently enshrined at the Grand Kuenrey Hall in Tashichhodzong. The relics are being exhibited in Bhutan to mark the 70th birth anniversary of the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and the Global Peace Prayer Festival dedicated to global peace and happiness.
The Fourth King, popularly known as K4, ruled from 1972 until 2006 before abdicating in favor of his son, the current King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (K5).
In a major highlight of the visit, Prime Minister Modi and King Wangchuck jointly inaugurated the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, a key symbol of the robust and mutually beneficial energy partnership between the two countries.
The leaders also witnessed the signing of three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the areas of renewable energy, mental health services, and healthcare, aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation.
India additionally announced a concessional Line of Credit worth ₹4,000 crore to support Bhutan’s energy sector and development projects.
Reaffirming the “unique and exemplary” India–Bhutan relationship, the MEA said the partnership continues to be anchored in mutual trust, goodwill, and shared spiritual heritage, strengthened by vibrant people-to-people ties.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Thimphu on Tuesday for a two-day state visit, receiving a warm and gracious welcome from Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay at the airport.
