Narendra Modi on 15th June embarked on his maiden visit to Bhutan as India's Prime Minister. His two-day trip underscores his government's commitment to consolidate ties in India's neighbourhood.
On the eve of his visit, Modi on 14th June said that Bhutan was a "natural choice" as his first foreign destination because of the "unique and special relationship" and his trip would focus on making development cooperation "even more effective". In his pre-departure statement, Modi said relations with Bhutan will be a key foreign policy priority of his government.
A day ahead of Prime Minister Modi's first official foreign trip to Bhutan, Bhutanese PM Tshering Tobgay welcomed the visit hoping that it will be historic.
His visit assumes significance since China has lately intensified efforts to win it over and establish full-fledged diplomatic ties with Thimpu. The PM will be accompanied by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Foreign Secretary Sujata Singh and NSA Ajit Doval.
During the visit, Modi will address the joint session of the parliament of Bhutan. He will also inaugurate one of India's assistance projects, the building of the Supreme Court of Bhutan. He will also lay the foundation stone of the 600 MW Kholongchu hydropower project.
