THE NEWS FREEDOM
NEW DELHI, MARCH 23
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Bhutan, India and Bhutan today issued a joint statement emphasizing the depth of their longstanding friendship and cooperative ties. The statement highlighted the historical bonds between the two nations, characterized by mutual trust, goodwill, and shared cultural heritage. It underscored the pivotal role of economic and financial ties in strengthening bilateral relations, acknowledging the close friendship between the peoples of India and Bhutan as the cornerstone of their partnership.
Specifically, the statement addressed the enduring partnership between India and Bhutan, rooted in common values and a shared commitment to cultural and spiritual heritage. It emphasized the reciprocal support between the two nations, encapsulated in the motto “Bharat for Bhutan and Bhutan for Bharat,” which has been sustained by the enlightened leadership of successive Druk Gyalpos of Bhutan and the political leadership in India and Bhutan.
Furthermore, the joint statement expressed satisfaction with the cooperation between India and Bhutan in matters related to mutual security, affirming a commitment to continue close coordination and cooperation on issues of national interest. It outlined plans for a transformative partnership aimed at advancing unique and special relations, particularly through initiatives promoting connectivity, economic cooperation, and digital integration.
The statement highlighted India’s longstanding development partnership with Bhutan, which has been instrumental in empowering people and fostering development across various sectors and regions. It underscored the alignment between India’s developmental approach of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas’ and Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness, emphasizing a commitment to further expand this partnership in alignment with Bhutanese priorities and aspirations.
In the realm of energy cooperation, the joint statement emphasized the significance of deep economic engagement between India and Bhutan, particularly in sectors such as hydropower, solar energy, and green hydrogen. It underscored the potential for joint projects to enhance energy security in the region, welcoming the Joint Vision Statement on India-Bhutan Energy Partnership as a step in this direction.
Moreover, the statement highlighted the imperative of leveraging digital and technological transformation for rapid economic growth and enhancing the well-being of both peoples. It outlined plans to intensify engagement in niche sectors such as space technology, digital infrastructure, and clean energy, reflecting a shared commitment to harnessing technology for mutual benefit.
In addition to economic cooperation, the joint statement emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people linkages between India and Bhutan. It outlined measures to promote exchanges in areas such as education, tourism, sports, and cultural heritage, with a focus on nurturing spiritual and cultural affinities between the two nations.
Finally, the joint statement acknowledged the aspirations of both nations for progress and prosperity. It highlighted India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047 and Bhutan’s vision to achieve high-income status by 2034, underscoring the commitment of both countries to work together as close friends and partners in pursuit of shared objectives.