India to Double Assistance to Bhutan, Strengthen Bilateral Relations: Modi
Key Points:
- Increased Assistance:
- India pledges to double Bhutan's assistance over the next five years, from ₹5,000 crore to ₹10,000 crore for the period till 2029.
- Award and Recognition:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi awarded Bhutan's highest honor, the 'Order of the Druk Gyalpo', acknowledging India's role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic in Bhutan.
- Bilateral Agreements:
- India and Bhutan sign seven agreements covering energy, food safety, sports, research, and space collaboration roadmap.
- Focus Areas for Cooperation:
- Modi emphasizes collaboration on connectivity, infrastructure, trade, and energy sectors between India and Bhutan.
- Infrastructure Projects:
- Mention of initiatives such as a new airport, rail links, waterways navigation on the Brahmaputra, and integrated check posts to strengthen trade infrastructure.
- Support for Gelephu Mindfulness City Project:
- Modi highlights India's support for the 'Gelephu Mindfulness City' project initiated by Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
- Warm Reception and Meetings:
- Modi received warmly in Bhutan, met with Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and had audiences with both the current and former kings of Bhutan.
- Bilateral Relations Praised:
- Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar lauds Modi as a true friend and supporter of Bhutan's national vision, highlighting exemplary relations between the two nations.