Khattar Prays at Bhutan's Historic Simtokha Dzong, Touts Energy Ties

Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar offered prayers at the historic Simtokha Dzong in Bhutan, praising its architectural and spiritual significance. His visit also included a review of key hydropower projects like Punatsangchhu-I and II, which are central to bilateral energy cooperation. Khattar emphasized that these projects are crucial for clean energy generation and revenue for Bhutan. He reaffirmed India's commitment to supporting Bhutan's sustainable energy development, calling hydropower cooperation a cornerstone of their enduring partnership.

Key Points: Khattar Visits Bhutan's Simtokha Dzong, Reviews Hydropower Projects

  • Prayers at historic Simtokha Dzong
  • Review of Punatsangchhu hydropower projects
  • Highlighting clean energy cooperation
  • Strengthening India-Bhutan bilateral ties
2 min read

Manohar Lal Khattar offers prayers at Simtokha Dzong in Bhutan

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar offers prayers at Simtokha Dzong in Bhutan and reviews key India-funded hydropower projects, highlighting bilateral ties.

"Hydropower cooperation continues to be a cornerstone of India-Bhutan relations. - Manohar Lal Khattar"

Thimphu, April 11

Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Saturday offered prayers at Simtokha Dzong in Bhutan.

Khattar said that as one of the oldest dzongs in the country, Simtokha Dzong stands as a testament to Bhutan's rich architectural heritage and enduring Buddhist traditions.

In a post on X, he said, "The historical Simtokha Dzong occupies a special place in Bhutan's cultural and spiritual landscape. As one of the oldest dzongs in the country, it stands as a testament to Bhutan's rich architectural heritage and enduring Buddhist traditions."

"During my visit to this revered site, I had the privilege of offering prayers and experiencing the deep sense of peace and reverence that it embodies. Simtokha Dzong continues to inspire generations, reflecting the timeless values and spiritual ethos that define Bhutan," he said.

Earlier on Friday, Khattar highlighted the strength of India-Bhutan ties during his visit to key hydropower projects in Bhutan, including the Punatsangchhu-I and II hydroelectric projects, and stressed their role in clean energy generation and bilateral cooperation.

In a post on X, the Union Minister said, "Visited the powerhouse of the Punatsangchhu-II HEP and reviewed its operational performance. The project has emerged as a key contributor to Bhutan's energy sector, generating substantial power and revenue while enabling clean energy exports to India."

He added, "Appreciated its efficient execution and operations and reaffirmed India's continued commitment to supporting Bhutan's sustainable energy development."

The minister also visited the Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project and reviewed the facilities and interacted with workers. He said, "Visited the powerhouse of the Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project and reviewed the facilities, along with an interaction with the workforce on site."

Underscoring the importance of bilateral collaboration, the Union Minister said, "Hydropower cooperation continues to be a cornerstone of India-Bhutan relations, advancing sustainable energy generation while strengthening economic ties and deepening our enduring partnership."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good to see the focus on clean energy cooperation. These hydropower projects are crucial for sustainable development in the region. Hope this partnership continues to grow and we can learn from Bhutan's environmental consciousness as well.
R
Rohit P
While the diplomatic visit is positive, I hope such engagements also translate into tangible benefits for the local communities involved in these projects. Sometimes the high-level talks don't filter down. Just a thought.
S
Sarah B
The Simtokha Dzong looks magnificent from the pictures I've seen. It's wonderful that Minister Khattar took the time for this cultural visit. Strengthening ties isn't just about business and energy, it's also about shared cultural values.
V
Vikram M
Bhutan is one of our most reliable partners. This hydropower cooperation model should be showcased more. It provides clean energy for India and vital revenue for Bhutan's development. A true example of neighborhood first policy.
M
Michael C
Interesting read. The strategic and economic partnership between India and Bhutan seems very balanced. The focus on reviewing operational performance shows a practical, results-oriented approach to diplomacy, which is good.

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