Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar Concludes Successful Visit to Bhutan
Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankars visit to Bhutan strengthens bilateral ties and cooperation on energy projects and development goals.
Thimphu, September 18 (Daily Kiran) : Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar wrapped up his visit to Bhutan on September 18, 2026. During his trip, he engaged in discussions with Bhutanese officials on various aspects of bilateral cooperation.
Sharing highlights of his visit on social media platform X, Jaishankar expressed, “I have completed a successful trip to Bhutan. The warmth of our unique friendship touched my heart.”
Jaishankar’s official visit was at the invitation of Bhutan’s Foreign and External Trade Minister, Lyonpo D.N. Dhungyel.
A joint statement released on Friday welcomed the progress made in strengthening the special and multifaceted partnership between India and Bhutan under the guidance of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The statement also acknowledged advancements in bilateral development cooperation.
The Minister reiterated India’s support for Bhutan’s development goals and priorities, while Bhutan expressed appreciation for the assistance received from India for various programs under its 13th Five-Year Plan (2024-29).
Jaishankar and his Bhutanese counterpart Dhungyel expressed satisfaction with the implementation of the joint vision for energy cooperation established in March 2024. They recalled recent advancements in energy collaboration, including the inauguration of the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project, the signing of its tariff protocol, and the resumption of construction for the 1200 MW Punatsangchhu-I hydropower project.
The statement noted, “They welcomed the signing of a concessional line of credit agreement worth ₹4000 crore for energy projects in Bhutan.” The active participation of Indian companies in hydropower projects in Bhutan was also commended, as it has injected new momentum into existing energy cooperation.
Jaishankar reaffirmed the Indian government’s support for the vision of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) proposed by the King of Bhutan. Both sides agreed to continue discussions through a joint working group on GMC and to pursue efforts to enhance cooperation on related issues.
