New Delhi, Dec 27: Newly elected, Bhutan PM, Dr. Lotay Tshering arrived in India today on a three-day official visit. this visit is first abroad visited by Bhutan PM which underlines the importance Of India-Bhutan relations for Bhutan.
The Bilateral Relations between Bhutan and India have been traditionally close and both countries shared the special bond of culture and partnership. India recognized Bhutan as the Protected state, not as Protectorate of India. India is influential over Bhutan’s foreign policy, defense, and commerce.
According to the official statement of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), this visit is taking place during the golden jubilee year of establishment of formal diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan. MEA also called this visit as “Goodwill Visit”.
MEA said, “India and Bhutan enjoy exemplary ties of friendship and cooperation, based on utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding at all levels. The upcoming visit of the Prime Minister Dr. Lotay Tshering will provide an opportunity to the two sides to review the progress in our multifaceted partnership and to discuss ways and means to expand the enduring ties of friendship and cooperation for the benefit of the two peoples.”
Vijay Gokhale, the foreign secretary of MEA will call the visiting dignitaries.
This official visit mainly focuses on, all the bilateral and regional aspects of this relations. both sides will focus on development and infrastructure projects, including hydropower projects. The top agenda is India’s assistance to Bhutan’s 12th Five-Year plan.
The Annual India-Bhutan Development Cooperation Talks were held on November 10, 2017, in New Delhi. India had committed assistance of Rs 4500 crore for the implementation of development projects during Bhutan's 11th FYP (2013-2018). During this MEA stated that India has been a privileged partner of Bhutan in its socio-economic development, India’s commitment will continue the support to Bhutan in its development efforts.
The PM Narendra Modi will be accompanied by Bhutan’s Foreign Minister and other senior officials.
The government of Dr. Lotay Tshering is surprise win with the toppling of the previous Tshering Tobgay Administration.
Dr. Lotay Tshering will pay homage to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi.
Prime Minister of Bhutan will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu. Bhutan PM will attend ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu and Power Minister R K Singh are scheduled to call on the visiting dignitary.
