Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay Strengthens India-Bhutan Relations During Official Visit
SOUL Conclave Highlights India-Bhutan Friendship, Economic & Leadership Cooperation
New Delhi, February 22, 2025 – Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay completed his two-day official visit to India from February 20 to 21, further strengthening the close ties between the two countries. The visit focused on deepening diplomatic, economic, and leadership collaborations, with a key highlight being the inaugural Leadership Conclave of the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL), inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that Tobgay’s visit reinforced the long-standing friendship and mutual trust between India and Bhutan, ensuring continued engagement at the highest levels.
Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Cooperation
During his stay in New Delhi, Tobgay held discussions with Prime Minister Modi and other senior officials, including:
- Ashwini Vaishnaw – Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, Electronics & IT
- Kiren Rijiju – Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Minority Affairs
- Pabitra Margherita – Minister of State for External Affairs
The discussions covered a range of topics, including leadership development, regional security, economic collaboration, and infrastructure development. India remains Bhutan’s largest trading partner, and both countries reiterated their commitment to expanding trade, hydropower cooperation, and regional connectivity projects.
Tobgay Praises Modi’s Leadership
Speaking at the SOUL Conclave, Tobgay expressed deep appreciation for PM Modi’s leadership, referring to him as a mentor and elder brother. His speech, partly delivered in Hindi, received applause from the audience.
“Without a doubt, I see an image of an elder brother in you, who always guides and helps me,” Tobgay remarked.
He also praised the SOUL initiative as a visionary step in nurturing authentic leadership dedicated to public service.
Bhutan’s King Attends Maha Kumbh Celebrations
In a significant cultural moment, Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck arrived in India to participate in the Maha Kumbh celebrations in Prayagraj. The King performed religious rituals and took a holy dip at the Sangam, highlighting the deep cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations.
Strengthening Regional Stability and Future Cooperation
Discussions during the visit also focused on security cooperation, border management, and joint development projects. Bhutan plays a key role in India’s energy security, with hydropower projects being a crucial area of collaboration.
India and Bhutan have consistently worked together on regional issues, including water resource management and border security. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continuing this cooperation for mutual benefit.
A Lasting Friendship Built on Trust
Dasho Tshering Tobgay’s visit reinforced the strong bond between India and Bhutan, founded on trust, respect, and shared aspirations. With leadership collaboration, economic engagement, and cultural exchanges growing, the future of India-Bhutan relations looks more promising than ever.
As India strengthens its diplomatic outreach in South Asia, its unwavering commitment to Bhutan underscores its role as a reliable and steadfast partner. The visit reaffirmed that the India-Bhutan relationship is not just about policies and agreements but also about deep-rooted friendship and shared prosperity.
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