New Delhi, September 18 (Daily Kiran) : India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently completed a three-day official visit to Bhutan from September 16 to 18. During this visit, both countries evaluated all aspects of their bilateral cooperation and discussed significant regional and international issues.
Jaishankar’s trip was made at the invitation of Bhutan’s Foreign and External Trade Minister, Lyonpo D.N. Dhungyel. A joint statement released on Friday highlighted progress in strengthening the unique partnership between India and Bhutan under the guidance of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two nations acknowledged advancements in mutual cooperation related to development.
The minister reiterated India’s commitment to supporting Bhutan’s development goals and priorities. Bhutan expressed gratitude for India’s assistance in several programs under its 13th Five-Year Plan (2024-29).
Jaishankar and Dhungyel expressed satisfaction with the progress in implementing the Joint Vision for energy cooperation established in March 2024. They also noted significant recent developments in the energy sector, including the inauguration of the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project and the signing of its tariff protocol. Additionally, the resumption of construction on the 1,200 MW Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project was mentioned.
The joint statement welcomed the signing of an agreement related to a concessional line of credit worth ₹4,000 crore for energy projects in Bhutan. It also emphasized the active participation of Indian companies in Bhutan’s hydropower projects, which is expected to enhance the existing energy collaboration between the two countries.
Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s support for the vision of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) proposed by Bhutan’s King. Both nations agreed to continue efforts to enhance cooperation on issues discussed by the joint working group focused on GMC.
The statement reiterated India’s commitment to establishing an immigration check post at Hatishar in Assam to facilitate travel for investors and tourists to Gelephu. This initiative was announced by Prime Minister Modi during his visit to Bhutan in November 2025.
Bhutan expressed appreciation for India’s decision to implement a temporary immigration facility at Hatishar, aimed at easing access for foreign nationals visiting for Project 108 Chortens/Stupas, set to begin on November 1, 2026.
India thanked Bhutan for its support of India’s candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2028-2029 term. The two countries also welcomed Bhutan’s approval of the framework agreement for the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA).
Both foreign ministers exchanged views on regional and global developments, acknowledging the importance of their close relationship amid complex international circumstances. The joint statement emphasized the exemplary partnership between India and Bhutan, built on trust, mutual goodwill, and strong ties between their peoples. This visit reflects the longstanding tradition of close dialogue and cooperation between the two nations.
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