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Key Points

Indian Ambassador Sandeep Arya just met with Bhutan's Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay to strengthen the special friendship between their countries. They discussed advancing various collaborative projects that are currently underway. This high-level meeting came right after foreign secretary talks that reviewed all aspects of bilateral cooperation. The two nations also signed a new railway agreement to improve cross-border connectivity and economic ties.

Key Points: India Bhutan Strengthen Ties as Envoy Meets PM Tobgay

  • Ambassador Arya appreciated PM Tobgay's support for strengthening India-Bhutan friendship
  • Both leaders committed to advancing ongoing collaborative projects and initiatives
  • The meeting followed foreign secretary talks reviewing full spectrum of bilateral engagements
  • New railway MoU signed to enhance cross-border connectivity and economic linkages
2 min read

Indian envoy calls on Bhutan PM, appreciates support for strengthening ties

Indian Ambassador Sandeep Arya meets Bhutan PM Tshering Tobgay, reaffirming commitment to deepen special friendship and advance bilateral cooperation projects.

"We reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the special bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two countries. - Tshering Tobgay"

Thimphu, Sep 30

India's Ambassador to Bhutan, Sandeep Arya called on Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay on Monday, appreciating his support for strengthening the special friendship and cooperation between both countries while encouraging various initiatives.

"Ambassador called on H.E. Dasho Tshering Tobgay, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan. We appreciate his warmth and kind support for strengthening the special friendship and cooperation between India and Bhutan, and encouragement to advancing various initiatives and collaborative projects underway between us," the Indian Embassy in Bhutan wrote in a post on X.

Tobgay stated that he and Arya expressed commitment to further deepen cooperation between India and Bhutan.

Sharing details regarding the meeting, Tobgay, in a post on X, wrote, "Pleased to meet H.E. Shri Sandeep Arya, Ambassador of India to Bhutan. We reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the special bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two countries."

The meeting comes a day after talks were held between Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and her Bhutanese counterpart Aum Pema Choden, during latter's visit to India. During their consultations, both Foreign Secretaries reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral engagements and noted the progress achieved in all key areas of cooperation.

"Specifically, they welcomed the successful commissioning of all six units of 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project which is a major milestone in the realisation of India-Bhutan Joint Vision on Energy Partnership. They also expressed satisfaction at the ongoing development cooperation projects and initiatives being undertaken with Government of India support under Bhutan's 13th Five Year Plan, which were progressing well and bringing tangible benefits to the people of Bhutan," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday.

India and Bhutan on Monday signed an Inter-Governmental MoU for the establishment of railway links between both countries. The MoU envisages establishment of first set of cross-border rail links, connecting Kokrajhar and Gelephu, and Banarhat and Serhoamtse, according to MEA statement.

"These projects are part of our broader efforts to enhance connectivity between the two countries and will strengthen economic and people-to-people linkages," read a statement issued by the MEA.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I appreciate the positive developments, I hope our government ensures these projects actually benefit local communities on both sides. Sometimes big infrastructure projects don't trickle down to common people.
A
Arjun K
Bhutan has always been a reliable friend to India. The railway connectivity between Kokrajhar-Gelephu and Banarhat-Serhoamtse will boost trade and tourism. Looking forward to visiting Bhutan by train soon! 🚆
S
Sarah B
The 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project commissioning is impressive! Clean energy cooperation between neighbors sets a great example for sustainable development in South Asia.
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Vikram M
Bhutan-India relations are special indeed. Our cultural ties, economic cooperation, and now infrastructure development - this partnership should be a model for other SAARC countries. Jai Hind!
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Michael C
As someone who has visited Bhutan, I can say the people-to-people connections are already strong. These new initiatives will make the bond even deeper. Good diplomatic work by both governments.

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