In the Himalayan kingdom on a two-day trip, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met with Bhutan’s former king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and said it was his commitment to participate in the “important occasion” of the fourth ‘Druk Gyalpo’s’ 70th birth anniversary.
Appreciating Wangchuck’s extensive efforts over the years towards furthering ties between the two South Asian neighbours, PM Modi said the fourth king’s transformative tenure saw the emergence of Bhutan as a “modern nation-state” and a constitutional democratic monarchy.
“Had a wonderful meeting with His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. Appreciated his extensive efforts over the years towards further cementing India-Bhutan ties,” the Prime Minister said in a social media post.
During the meeting, PM Modi said they discussed cooperation between the two nations in energy, trade, technology and connectivity.
“Lauded the progress in the Gelephu Mindfulness City Project, which aligns with our Act East Policy,” he added.
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Thanking “His Majesty for his wise counsel and guidance in further enhancing the special India-Bhutan friendship”, the Ministry of External Affairs said the Prime Minister conveyed best wishes of the government and people of India for the former king’s continued good health, well-being and a long life, the ministry added.
Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day visit to the Himalayan country, where he inaugurated the Punatsanchchhu-II project along with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck following their wide-ranging talks.
The Prime Minister said India and Bhutan have shared a deep spiritual and cultural bond for centuries and that the fourth king of Bhutan is a confluence of wisdom, simplicity, courage, and selfless service to the nation.
It was under his leadership that Bhutan introduced the unique concept of gross national happiness, blending economic growth with sustainability, he added.
The PM said progress and prosperity of the two countries is closely linked and that there will be greater focus on boosting connectivity.
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