India Extends 100 Billion Rupees Assistance to Bhutan in 13th Plan
21-22 March, 2024 | Thimphu: Bhutan
During his significant two-day visit to Bhutan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a landmark announcement, signifying India’s unwavering commitment to bolstering its relationship with its neighboring nation. The Government of India pledged a substantial assistance package of 100 billion Indian Rupees to support Bhutan’s developmental endeavors under its 13th plan.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit holds immense importance as it marks his final official visit before the forthcoming elections in India. This underscores the priority and significance India places on its bilateral ties with Bhutan, a relationship deeply rooted in historical, cultural, and strategic bonds.
A notable highlight of PM Modi’s visit was the prestigious honor bestowed upon him by His Majesty the King of Bhutan. The announcement of the Nga-dag Pelgi Khorlo, or the Order of Druk Gyalpo, by His Majesty the king Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck on December 17, 2021, symbolized the profound appreciation for PM Modi’s exemplary leadership in strengthening the Bhutan-India relationship and his contributions to the global community.
On March 22, at Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu; expressing heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, PM Modi emphasized that the honor was a testament to the collective efforts and aspirations of all 1.4 billion Indians. He commended Bhutan for its remarkable progress as a nation and reiterated India’s steadfast commitment to supporting its developmental journey.
During his address, PM Modi hailed Bhutan’s commendable efforts in environmental conservation, particularly as a carbon-neutral country, setting a compelling example for the world in combating climate change. He underscored the need for leveraging technology to drive economic growth and enhance the well-being of both Indian and Bhutanese citizens.
PM Modi outlined key initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity between India and Bhutan, including the proposed construction of railway links between Gelephu-Kokrajhar and Samtse-Banarhat, along with integrated check posts to facilitate seamless cross-border trade and movement of goods and services.
In his comprehensive speech, PM Modi underscored the shared cultural heritage and historical ties between India and Bhutan, emphasizing the deep-rooted spiritual connections and mutual respect that bind the two nations together. He reiterated India’s commitment to supporting Bhutan’s developmental aspirations across various sectors, including education, technology, sports, and cultural exchange.
PM Modi concluded his address by expressing optimism for the future trajectory of India-Bhutan relations under the visionary leadership of His Majesty the King. He extended heartfelt gratitude to the people of Bhutan for their warm hospitality and reiterated India’s steadfast commitment to nurturing and strengthening the enduring friendship between the two nations.
The visit marked a significant milestone in India’s foreign policy, reaffirming its steadfast commitment to fostering robust and enduring ties with its neighboring nations, with Bhutan occupying a central and cherished position in India’s strategic calculus.
Prime Minister Modi’s Speech Highlights:
- Gratitude and Honor: PM Modi expressed profound gratitude for being honored with the highest Civilian Award of Bhutan, recognizing it as a significant milestone for both India and Bhutan. He emphasized that the honor is not merely his personal achievement but a recognition of India’s collective efforts and the bond shared between the two nations.
- Strong Bilateral Relations: PM Modi highlighted the unbreakable bond and mutual trust between India and Bhutan, emphasizing the familial ties shared by the people of both countries. He underscored the enduring nature of their friendship and cooperation, describing it as a special and irreplaceable aspect of their relationship.
- Historical and Cultural Connections: PM Modi reflected on the shared heritage and spiritual significance that bind India and Bhutan together. He praised Bhutan for preserving the teachings of Lord Buddha and emphasized the country’s modern approach in preserving its rich cultural heritage while embracing innovation.
- Support for Bhutan’s Development: PM Modi reiterated India’s unwavering support for Bhutan’s developmental goals and expressed confidence in Bhutan’s potential to achieve new heights in technology, infrastructure, and manufacturing under the leadership of His Majesty the King. He pledged India’s assistance in realizing Bhutan’s vision of becoming a high-income country by 2034.
- Cooperation in Future Projects: PM Modi announced India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Bhutan in various sectors, including connectivity, infrastructure, trade, and energy. He outlined specific initiatives such as the construction of new airports, railway links, and waterways, as well as the establishment of integrated check posts to strengthen trade infrastructure.
- People-to-People Relations: PM Modi emphasized the importance of people-to-people relations as the foundation of the strong bond between India and Bhutan. He highlighted the numerous collaborative projects benefiting the citizens of both countries, ranging from education and healthcare to infrastructure development and space technology.
- Shared Celebrations and Successes: PM Modi celebrated the close relationship between India and Bhutan by citing examples of shared successes, such as India’s Moon Mission and Bhutan’s film “Lunana” being nominated for the Oscars. He underscored the unique closeness and mutual joy experienced by both nations in each other’s achievements.
- Vision for the Future: PM Modi expressed confidence in India’s trajectory toward becoming a developed country and acknowledged Bhutan’s role as a strong partner in this journey. He thanked His Majesty, the Fourth King, for his guidance and leadership, expressing optimism for the continued growth and prosperity of India-Bhutan relations.
PM Modi said “In our deep ties, B2B – Bharat to Bhutan, and P2P – People To People, form the foundation of our enduring partnership.”
Prime Minister Modi’s speech epitomized the depth of the relationship between India and Bhutan, highlighting their shared values, aspirations, and commitment to mutual progress and prosperity.
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