New Delhi, Nov 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday conveyed to Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck India’s full support to the socio-economic development of Bhutan based on its priorities even as the two sides agreed to boost cross-border connectivity and expand ties in trade, infrastructure and energy.
A joint statement issued after wide-ranging talks between Modi and Wangchuck said the two sides agreed on a final location survey for the proposed cross-border rail link connecting Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan.
They also agreed to consider establishing a rail link between Banarhat in West Bengal and Samtse in Bhutan.
In a post on ‘X’, Modi described the talks as “warm” and “positive”.
“We had very warm and positive discussions on various facets of the unique and exemplary India-Bhutan relationship. Deeply value His Majesty’s vision for the development and wellbeing of the friendly people of Bhutan,” he said.
Modi and Wangchuck “positively assessed” expanding India-Bhutan partnership including in new areas of connectivity in its “broadest form”, cross-border trade infrastructure, trade and mutual investments, energy, health, education, space technology and people-to-people contacts, the statement said.
The Bhutan king began his eight-day visit to India from Guwahati on November 3. His high-profile trip to India came amid renewed push by Bhutan and China for an early settlement of their decades-old boundary dispute.
“In his interaction with His Majesty, the prime minister reaffirmed India’s abiding commitment to its unique ties of friendship and cooperation with Bhutan and reiterated continued and full support to the socio-economic development in Bhutan based on the priorities of the Royal Government and as per the vision of His Majesty,” the joint statement said.
It said Wangchuck shared valuable perspective and insights on the ongoing reforms process in Bhutan and conveyed appreciation for the invaluable support that India continues to provide for Bhutan’s socio-economic development. (PTI)
