Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has lauded India sending Buddha relics to his country, and termed the railway connectivity project as one that further 'cements' the friendship. India and Bhutan are advancing a 58-km cross-border rail link from Kokrajhar (Assam) to Gelephu, set to boost trade and tourism.&nbsp;His comments come ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Himalayan kingdom next week to attend the 70th birthday of Bhutan’s Fourth King &amp; Global Peace Prayer Festival. During PM Modi's visit, a key hydropower project will be inaugurated. Speaking to WION, he said, 'PM Modi will be the guest of honour'. Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project (1,020 MW), which will nearly double Bhutan's electricity capacity, boost power exports to India, and enhance energy security for both nations. Funded partly by India, it aligns with Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-bhutan-s-himalayan-haven-buddhist-leaders-convene-for-global-peace-prayers-india-to-send-relics-1762436747419">In Bhutan’s Himalayan haven, Buddhist leaders convene for global peace prayers; India to send relics</a> Tobgay described the Global Peace Prayer Festival, a joint initiative of the Indian and Bhutanese governments, as a reminder of shared values. “We have a strong spiritual tradition of conducting prayers for peace. We have reached out to monks, spiritual practitioners,” he said, adding that the event would feature an “unprecedented gathering of worshipers" who are "offering prayers for global Peace".&nbsp;India will be sending Buddha relics for the festival. PM Tobgay welcomed the gesture. “We will receive very sacred relics of Lord Buddha from India..,” he said. “India sending Relics, shows we are on the same page when it comes to spiritual collaboration, not just political, development cooperation. Deeply grateful for PM Modi to receive and worship relics. I see relics being sent as a gift of PM Modi, my elder brother, to people of Bhutan.’”&nbsp;Tobgay spoke of Modi in effusive terms, calling him “my elder brother, my political mentor, he is not just a political leader, but a spiritual master. To have him here, bless the gathering, is very important for us”. He added, “PM Modi is very caring to me, I feel the warmth of brotherhood, as early as 2014...he is an exemplary political leader, spiritual master.”&nbsp;He also spoke about Gelephu Mindfulness City, a planned “economic corridor” on Bhutan’s southern border with India. “It is important for India as well, it is on the border with India,” Tobgay said. “Indian business can enjoy advantages. It will be a gateway for investment.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/buddhist-leaders-to-gather-in-bhutan-for-a-unique-global-peace-prayer-1761988446724">Buddhist leaders to gather in Bhutan for a unique Global Peace Prayer</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tobgay spoke of PM Modi in effusive terms, calling him “my elder brother, my political mentor, he is not just a political leader, but a spiritual master. To have him here, bless the gathering, is very important for us”

Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has lauded India sending Buddha relics to his country, and termed the railway connectivity project as one that further 'cements' the friendship. India and Bhutan are advancing a 58-km cross-border rail link from Kokrajhar (Assam) to Gelephu, set to boost trade and tourism. His comments come ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Himalayan kingdom next week to attend the 70th birthday of Bhutan’s Fourth King & Global Peace Prayer Festival. During PM Modi's visit, a key hydropower project will be inaugurated. Speaking to WION, he said, 'PM Modi will be the guest of honour'. Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project (1,020 MW), which will nearly double Bhutan's electricity capacity, boost power exports to India, and enhance energy security for both nations. Funded partly by India, it aligns with Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan. Also read | In Bhutan’s Himalayan haven, Buddhist leaders convene for global peace prayers; India to send relics Tobgay described the Global Peace Prayer Festival, a joint initiative of the Indian and Bhutanese governments, as a reminder of shared values. “We have a strong spiritual tradition of conducting prayers for peace. We have reached out to monks, spiritual practitioners,” he said, adding that the event would feature an “unprecedented gathering of worshipers" who are "offering prayers for global Peace". India will be sending Buddha relics for the festival. PM Tobgay welcomed the gesture. “We will receive very sacred relics of Lord Buddha from India..,” he said. “India sending Relics, shows we are on the same page when it comes to spiritual collaboration, not just political, development cooperation. Deeply grateful for PM Modi to receive and worship relics. I see relics being sent as a gift of PM Modi, my elder brother, to people of Bhutan.’” Tobgay spoke of Modi in effusive terms, calling him “my elder brother, my political mentor, he is not just a political leader, but a spiritual master. To have him here, bless the gathering, is very important for us”. He added, “PM Modi is very caring to me, I feel the warmth of brotherhood, as early as 2014...he is an exemplary political leader, spiritual master.” He also spoke about Gelephu Mindfulness City, a planned “economic corridor” on Bhutan’s southern border with India. “It is important for India as well, it is on the border with India,” Tobgay said. “Indian business can enjoy advantages. It will be a gateway for investment.” Also read | Buddhist leaders to gather in Bhutan for a unique Global Peace Prayer

Tobgay spoke of PM Modi in effusive terms, calling him “my elder brother, my political mentor, he is not just a political leader, but a spiritual master. To have him here, bless the gathering, is very important for us”

PM Modi to attend global Peace Prayer Festival, says Bhutan PM Tobgay

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled trip to Bhutan was postponed at the last moment due to adverse weather conditions affecting Paro airport. The Ministry of External Affairs is currently collaborating with its counterparts to determine new dates for this significant visit.

"A statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the State visit of the Prime Minister to Bhutan on 21-22 March 2024 has been postponed due to persistent adverse weather conditions at Paro airport. Both parties have agreed upon this decision, and new dates are currently being negotiated through diplomatic channels."

Individuals familiar with the matter have indicated that this trip will pave the way for the introduction of numerous fresh initiatives in energy, infrastructure, and cross-border trade, enhancing bilateral relations in the face of China's escalating involvement in the Himalayan nation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/invited-to-visit-bhutan-next-week-pm-modi-700196" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/invited-to-visit-bhutan-next-week-pm-modi-700196&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj_4sSg6YCFAxVan68BHSyzAcYQFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2aSsJnWpTUbxrC-Z9uEsjZ&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/invited-to-visit-bhutan-next-week-pm-modi-700196" target="_blank">Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited to visit&nbsp;Bhutan&nbsp;next week&nbsp;</a>

During his stay, the Prime Minister was scheduled to hold audiences with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, and His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan. Additionally, he was to hold discussions with Bhutan's Prime Minister, H.E. Mr. Tshering Tobgay.

The bond between India and Bhutan is characterised by a distinctive and enduring partnership grounded in mutual trust, comprehension, and goodwill. Our shared spiritual legacy and robust people-to-people connections imbue our exceptional relationship with depth and dynamism.

This visit presents an opportunity for both nations to exchange perspectives on bilateral and regional concerns and explore avenues to enhance and deepen our exemplary partnership for the betterment of our populations.

During Tobgay's visit, Modi expressed India's commitment to bolster support for Bhutan's 13th five-year plan, which may include considering a request for an economic stimulus programme. Additionally, New Delhi's development assistance will be primarily directed towards infrastructure development and enhancing connectivity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-pm-tshering-tobgay-meets-indias-modi-discusses-bilateral-issues-700192" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-pm-tshering-tobgay-meets-indias-modi-discusses-bilateral-issues-700192&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiLzOKw6YCFAxU4jq8BHeqmCqkQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0cdQTM9fiCe4XpU23e3FHT&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-pm-tshering-tobgay-meets-indias-modi-discusses-bilateral-issues-700192" target="_blank">Bhutan's PM&nbsp;Tshering Tobgay meets India's Modi</a>

Tobgay chose India as his inaugural foreign destination following his assumption of office in January. In their discussions, both leaders acknowledged the robust bonds of friendship between India and Bhutan, underscoring their significance for regional stability, as outlined in a joint statement released on Saturday.

Furthermore, both parties affirmed their commitment to further fortify bilateral relations, with Modi affirming India's dedication to supporting Bhutan's aspirations for achieving high-income status, aligning with the vision of the Bhutanese monarch.

Tobgay extended gratitude to the Indian government for its contribution of ₹5,000 crore towards Bhutan's previous five-year plan, as mentioned in the joint statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-tshering-tobgay-to-become-pm-for-second-time-official-results-678559" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-tshering-tobgay-to-become-pm-for-second-time-official-results-678559&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiLzOKw6YCFAxU4jq8BHeqmCqkQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2S8pFBOgUOykPD4absZYPw&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-tshering-tobgay-to-become-pm-for-second-time-official-results-678559" target="_blank">Bhutan's&nbsp;Tshering Tobgay to become&nbsp;PM&nbsp;for second time</a>

India's development assistance will focus on enhancing infrastructure, including the development of road, rail, air, and digital connectivity, and supporting key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, skill development, and cultural preservation, as outlined in the joint statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled trip to Bhutan was postponed at the last moment due to adverse weather conditions affecting Paro airport. The Ministry of External Affairs is currently collaborating with its counterparts to determine new dates for this significant visit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled trip to Bhutan was postponed at the last moment due to adverse weather conditions affecting Paro airport. The Ministry of External Affairs is currently collaborating with its counterparts to determine new dates for this significant visit. "A statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the State visit of the Prime Minister to Bhutan on 21-22 March 2024 has been postponed due to persistent adverse weather conditions at Paro airport. Both parties have agreed upon this decision, and new dates are currently being negotiated through diplomatic channels." Individuals familiar with the matter have indicated that this trip will pave the way for the introduction of numerous fresh initiatives in energy, infrastructure, and cross-border trade, enhancing bilateral relations in the face of China's escalating involvement in the Himalayan nation. Also read: Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited to visit Bhutan next week During his stay, the Prime Minister was scheduled to hold audiences with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, and His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan. Additionally, he was to hold discussions with Bhutan's Prime Minister, H.E. Mr. Tshering Tobgay. The bond between India and Bhutan is characterised by a distinctive and enduring partnership grounded in mutual trust, comprehension, and goodwill. Our shared spiritual legacy and robust people-to-people connections imbue our exceptional relationship with depth and dynamism. This visit presents an opportunity for both nations to exchange perspectives on bilateral and regional concerns and explore avenues to enhance and deepen our exemplary partnership for the betterment of our populations. During Tobgay's visit, Modi expressed India's commitment to bolster support for Bhutan's 13th five-year plan, which may include considering a request for an economic stimulus programme. Additionally, New Delhi's development assistance will be primarily directed towards infrastructure development and enhancing connectivity. Also read: Bhutan's PM Tshering Tobgay meets India's Modi Tobgay chose India as his inaugural foreign destination following his assumption of office in January. In their discussions, both leaders acknowledged the robust bonds of friendship between India and Bhutan, underscoring their significance for regional stability, as outlined in a joint statement released on Saturday. Furthermore, both parties affirmed their commitment to further fortify bilateral relations, with Modi affirming India's dedication to supporting Bhutan's aspirations for achieving high-income status, aligning with the vision of the Bhutanese monarch. Tobgay extended gratitude to the Indian government for its contribution of ₹5,000 crore towards Bhutan's previous five-year plan, as mentioned in the joint statement. Also read: Bhutan's Tshering Tobgay to become PM for second time India's development assistance will focus on enhancing infrastructure, including the development of road, rail, air, and digital connectivity, and supporting key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, skill development, and cultural preservation, as outlined in the joint statement. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi’s state visit to Bhutan postponed due to adverse weather at Paro airport

Bhutan's Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji, in an exclusive interaction with WION, said that his country is holding discussion on railway connectivity with India, something that will "integrate trade and commerce". This is the first ever public acknowledgement in years of the talks of railway connectivity between the two countries. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the minister also dismissed reports of Chinese intrusions inside Bhutan’s territory and maintained that "Royal Government has categorically denied these reports on several occasions."

He also spoke about impact of Covid on his country and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict along with opening of his country to tourists. The country opened to international tourists in September this year after being closed to the world due to the Covid pandemic. Within these two months 14,473 tourists have already visited Bhutan. Half of these tourists, 7217, are Indian.

WION: Bhutan has opened to the world, how has the tourist inflow been?

Dr Tandi Dorji: Bhutan reopened its borders to tourists September 23, 2022 onwards with a renewed focus on the sustainability of the sector. The standards and certification process for service providers, including hotels, guides, tour operators, and drivers, as well as other businesses such as handicraft shops are being revised. The new requirements are more robust and ensure a minimum quality standard across the tourism sector. Persons employed in the industry will be required to undergo skill training where necessary. The intent is to provide quality service for our guests and enhance their experience. The inflow of visitors has been steadily increasing over the past months since the reopening, and we expect it to continue. Moreover, we are carrying out proactive and rigorous advertising and promotional activities to heighten Bhutan’s presence in the travel industry. We aim to establish Bhutan as a high value destination based on authentic experiences, Bhutanese hospitality, and interactive travel. The figures of tourism inflow are encouraging. So far, we have received more than 14000 tourists (as of 27th Nov, 14,473 tourists - 7,217 Indians and 7,256 others)

WION: Please tell us more about Bhutan’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and how India and Bhutan supported each other during the difficult times.

Dr&nbsp;Tandi Dorji: Bhutan’s response to the pandemic was characterised by a quick and proactive approach. The people’s morale as usual was upheld by the exemplary leadership of His Majesty The King during the difficult times and cultivation of trust by the government led by medical and health specialists and the health authorities. All sections of the society came together in solidarity and provided their support right from following the Covid protocols to providing volunteer services and other contributions. People of Bhutan followed all the health directives and cooperated to ensure the success of the Covid response. The people and the Royal Government of Bhutan are profoundly grateful to the people and the Government of India (GoI) for the unconditional and generous support provided by GoI to Bhutan in its efforts in managing the pandemic. The support of 690,000 doses of Covishield vaccine enabled Bhutan to launch the first nationwide vaccination programme in March/April last year, and GoI’s support in terms of medical supplies significantly supported Bhutan in its effective response efforts. During one of the most difficult times, India, under Prime Minister Modi provided admirable leadership to fight the virus through innovative initiatives such as SAARC COVID-19 Emergency Fund and Vaccine Maitri. India’s role in vaccine production and distribution, and its resolute commitment to reach out to other countries during this world crisis, was critical to Bhutan’s success in combating the challenges posed by the pandemic. The Government of India has also been very supportive in ensuring smooth passage of essential food, medical and other items all through the pandemic despite strict border control. The Government of India also supported Bhutan in evacuating stranded Bhutanese abroad and in India.

WION: Any plans to increase connectivity in the region? Any plans of a rail link between India and Bhutan?

Dr Tandi Dorji: Discussions for railway connectivity between India and Bhutan are underway. The railway initiative, which will be a historical milestone in the Bhutan-India relations, will further integrate trade and commerce as well as people to people relationships.

WION: When it comes to opening of Bhutan, a fee has been imposed on International as well as Indian tourists. Don't you think that will be seen as something like a barrier? What is the rationale for it?

Dr Tandi Dorji: The Sustainable Development Fee is not a new levy, it is a revision of the Tourism Levy Act of Bhutan 2020. The fees for Indians has remained the same and for international tourist, it has been increased from US$ 65 to US$ 200. The increase was necessary given the fact that it had been revised only once since the 1970s when Bhutan started receiving tourists. The tourism industry in Bhutan was founded on the principle of ‘High value, Low volume’ and the SDF was introduced since the start of tourism business in the country in 1974.&nbsp;

Bhutan’s reopening was a good opportunity for us to reset our tourism sector and go back to our roots of ‘high value, low volume’ tourism. We have unveiled a new tourism strategy, underpinned by transformations in three key areas: enhancements to our sustainable development policies, infrastructure upgrades, and the elevation of the guest experience. We need tourism to not only benefit Bhutan economically, but socially as well, while maintaining our low, sustainable footprint. The goal of our new strategy is to create high value experiences for guests, in addition to well-paying and professional jobs for our citizens. As such, we see tourism as a vital strategic driver of long-term transformation and opportunities for our people, so we are fully invested in its success. This is our moment of evolution, and we invite our guests to become our partners in this process. Further, our country is situated in a vulnerable location that makes it highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change, therefore we need to be extra cautious of our actions and policies.&nbsp;

We welcome all guests to Bhutan and believe that they are well positioned to understand the value and beauty of the Himalayan region and its fragile ecosystem. The SDF funds go to the national exchequer and are allocated to various projects that enhance infrastructure, services and facilities for nationals and guests who visit Bhutan. It enables investment in preserving our culture, traditions, and heritage, and protecting our environment, as well as funding free healthcare and education.

WION: How does Bhutan see the Russia-Ukraine conflict, its impact on you?

Dr&nbsp;Tandi Dorji: Bhutan is a peace-loving country, firmly committed to international law for peaceful coexistence and good neighbourly relations between states, and therefore, attaches importance to the UN Charter Principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of any State. Rising fuel and food prices are being felt by all countries including Bhutan. The impact is more pronounced as it comes at a time when the global economy has already been devastatingly hit by the Covid -19 Pandemic.

WION: China, another neighbour of yours has been a worry for countries in the region. How do you see ties with China, even though officially you don't have ties with any of the P5 countries?

Dr Tandi Dorji: As neighbours, Bhutan and China have enjoyed friendly relations. Friendly engagement and cooperative exchange between us are increasing.

WION: Reports suggest China is sitting on some of the Bhutanese territory even as it claims some.

Dr Tandi Dorji: Media reports of Chinese intrusions inside Bhutan’s territory are not true and the Royal Government has categorically denied these reports on several occasions. Media reports were based on open-source information, which may not be reliable. Any issues that arise along the Bhutan-China border are resolved through dialogue based on the 1988 Guiding Principles for the Settlement of the Bhutan-China Boundary Issues and the 1998 Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquillity in Bhutan-China Border Areas.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

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Bhutan's Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji, in an exclusive interaction with WION, said that his country is holding discussion on railway connectivity with India, something that will "integrate trade and commerce".

Bhutan's Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji, in an exclusive interaction with WION, said that his country is holding discussion on railway connectivity with India, something that will "integrate trade and commerce". This is the first ever public acknowledgement in years of the talks of railway connectivity between the two countries. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the minister also dismissed reports of Chinese intrusions inside Bhutan’s territory and maintained that "Royal Government has categorically denied these reports on several occasions." He also spoke about impact of Covid on his country and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict along with opening of his country to tourists. The country opened to international tourists in September this year after being closed to the world due to the Covid pandemic. Within these two months 14,473 tourists have already visited Bhutan. Half of these tourists, 7217, are Indian. WION: Bhutan has opened to the world, how has the tourist inflow been? Dr Tandi Dorji: Bhutan reopened its borders to tourists September 23, 2022 onwards with a renewed focus on the sustainability of the sector. The standards and certification process for service providers, including hotels, guides, tour operators, and drivers, as well as other businesses such as handicraft shops are being revised. The new requirements are more robust and ensure a minimum quality standard across the tourism sector. Persons employed in the industry will be required to undergo skill training where necessary. The intent is to provide quality service for our guests and enhance their experience. The inflow of visitors has been steadily increasing over the past months since the reopening, and we expect it to continue. Moreover, we are carrying out proactive and rigorous advertising and promotional activities to heighten Bhutan’s presence in the travel industry. We aim to establish Bhutan as a high value destination based on authentic experiences, Bhutanese hospitality, and interactive travel. The figures of tourism inflow are encouraging. So far, we have received more than 14000 tourists (as of 27th Nov, 14,473 tourists - 7,217 Indians and 7,256 others) WION: Please tell us more about Bhutan’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and how India and Bhutan supported each other during the difficult times. Dr Tandi Dorji: Bhutan’s response to the pandemic was characterised by a quick and proactive approach. The people’s morale as usual was upheld by the exemplary leadership of His Majesty The King during the difficult times and cultivation of trust by the government led by medical and health specialists and the health authorities. All sections of the society came together in solidarity and provided their support right from following the Covid protocols to providing volunteer services and other contributions. People of Bhutan followed all the health directives and cooperated to ensure the success of the Covid response. The people and the Royal Government of Bhutan are profoundly grateful to the people and the Government of India (GoI) for the unconditional and generous support provided by GoI to Bhutan in its efforts in managing the pandemic. The support of 690,000 doses of Covishield vaccine enabled Bhutan to launch the first nationwide vaccination programme in March/April last year, and GoI’s support in terms of medical supplies significantly supported Bhutan in its effective response efforts. During one of the most difficult times, India, under Prime Minister Modi provided admirable leadership to fight the virus through innovative initiatives such as SAARC COVID-19 Emergency Fund and Vaccine Maitri. India’s role in vaccine production and distribution, and its resolute commitment to reach out to other countries during this world crisis, was critical to Bhutan’s success in combating the challenges posed by the pandemic. The Government of India has also been very supportive in ensuring smooth passage of essential food, medical and other items all through the pandemic despite strict border control. The Government of India also supported Bhutan in evacuating stranded Bhutanese abroad and in India. WION: Any plans to increase connectivity in the region? Any plans of a rail link between India and Bhutan? Dr Tandi Dorji: Discussions for railway connectivity between India and Bhutan are underway. The railway initiative, which will be a historical milestone in the Bhutan-India relations, will further integrate trade and commerce as well as people to people relationships. WION: When it comes to opening of Bhutan, a fee has been imposed on International as well as Indian tourists. Don't you think that will be seen as something like a barrier? What is the rationale for it? Dr Tandi Dorji: The Sustainable Development Fee is not a new levy, it is a revision of the Tourism Levy Act of Bhutan 2020. The fees for Indians has remained the same and for international tourist, it has been increased from US$ 65 to US$ 200. The increase was necessary given the fact that it had been revised only once since the 1970s when Bhutan started receiving tourists. The tourism industry in Bhutan was founded on the principle of ‘High value, Low volume’ and the SDF was introduced since the start of tourism business in the country in 1974. Bhutan’s reopening was a good opportunity for us to reset our tourism sector and go back to our roots of ‘high value, low volume’ tourism. We have unveiled a new tourism strategy, underpinned by transformations in three key areas: enhancements to our sustainable development policies, infrastructure upgrades, and the elevation of the guest experience. We need tourism to not only benefit Bhutan economically, but socially as well, while maintaining our low, sustainable footprint. The goal of our new strategy is to create high value experiences for guests, in addition to well-paying and professional jobs for our citizens. As such, we see tourism as a vital strategic driver of long-term transformation and opportunities for our people, so we are fully invested in its success. This is our moment of evolution, and we invite our guests to become our partners in this process. Further, our country is situated in a vulnerable location that makes it highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change, therefore we need to be extra cautious of our actions and policies. We welcome all guests to Bhutan and believe that they are well positioned to understand the value and beauty of the Himalayan region and its fragile ecosystem. The SDF funds go to the national exchequer and are allocated to various projects that enhance infrastructure, services and facilities for nationals and guests who visit Bhutan. It enables investment in preserving our culture, traditions, and heritage, and protecting our environment, as well as funding free healthcare and education. WION: How does Bhutan see the Russia-Ukraine conflict, its impact on you? Dr Tandi Dorji: Bhutan is a peace-loving country, firmly committed to international law for peaceful coexistence and good neighbourly relations between states, and therefore, attaches importance to the UN Charter Principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of any State. Rising fuel and food prices are being felt by all countries including Bhutan. The impact is more pronounced as it comes at a time when the global economy has already been devastatingly hit by the Covid -19 Pandemic. WION: China, another neighbour of yours has been a worry for countries in the region. How do you see ties with China, even though officially you don't have ties with any of the P5 countries? Dr Tandi Dorji: As neighbours, Bhutan and China have enjoyed friendly relations. Friendly engagement and cooperative exchange between us are increasing. WION: Reports suggest China is sitting on some of the Bhutanese territory even as it claims some. Dr Tandi Dorji: Media reports of Chinese intrusions inside Bhutan’s territory are not true and the Royal Government has categorically denied these reports on several occasions. Media reports were based on open-source information, which may not be reliable. Any issues that arise along the Bhutan-China border are resolved through dialogue based on the 1988 Guiding Principles for the Settlement of the Bhutan-China Boundary Issues and the 1998 Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquillity in Bhutan-China Border Areas. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Railway connectivity with India being discussed, says Bhutan Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji

India's ISRO or Indian Space Research Organisation will be launching a Bhutanese satellite in December 2021.

The satellite is being built by four&nbsp;Bhutanese engineers who are being trained by ISRO, with the first phase already over.

Ambassador of India to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said,&nbsp;"Our two&nbsp;countries are collaborating to build a satellite...this satellite is going to be launched in 2021 from ISRO's facilities".

She highlighted, that it is&nbsp;"the only natural that these two&nbsp;best friends are cooperating in this final frontier"

She was speaking at an event "Space odyssey: showcasing India's achievements in space technology" organized by the Indian embassy in Bhutan as part of India's 75th year of Independence--Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.

The four&nbsp;Bhutanese engineers were also present at the occasion.&nbsp;The engineers completed 2 months of training at ISRO's UR Rao Satellite center in February and in the second phase of training will put the finishing touches on the satellite they are building.

R Umamaheswaran, Scientific Secretary, ISRO who was the keynote speaker at the event making a mention of the Bhutanese satellite that is being developed said, it "will fly hopefully by end of this year in PSLV mission, that is what we are planning"

India and Bhutan have engagement in space cooperation with a ground Earth station for South Asia Satellite being inaugurated in Thimphu during PM Modi's August 2019 Bhutan visit.

Ground Earth station was built with the help of ISRO.&nbsp;In 2017 India launched the South Asia satellite project with all countries barring Pakistan part of it.

Under the project, New Delhi has offered to increase bandwidth on an additional transponder on the satellite for Bhutan as a gift as per the country's requirement.

India's ISRO or Indian Space Research Organisation will be launching a Bhutanese satellite in December 2021. The satellite is being built by four Bhutanese engineers who are being trained by ISRO, with the first phase already over.

India's ISRO or Indian Space Research Organisation will be launching a Bhutanese satellite in December 2021. The satellite is being built by four Bhutanese engineers who are being trained by ISRO, with the first phase already over. Ambassador of India to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, "Our two countries are collaborating to build a satellite...this satellite is going to be launched in 2021 from ISRO's facilities". She highlighted, that it is "the only natural that these two best friends are cooperating in this final frontier" She was speaking at an event "Space odyssey: showcasing India's achievements in space technology" organized by the Indian embassy in Bhutan as part of India's 75th year of Independence--Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The four Bhutanese engineers were also present at the occasion. The engineers completed 2 months of training at ISRO's UR Rao Satellite center in February and in the second phase of training will put the finishing touches on the satellite they are building. R Umamaheswaran, Scientific Secretary, ISRO who was the keynote speaker at the event making a mention of the Bhutanese satellite that is being developed said, it "will fly hopefully by end of this year in PSLV mission, that is what we are planning" India and Bhutan have engagement in space cooperation with a ground Earth station for South Asia Satellite being inaugurated in Thimphu during PM Modi's August 2019 Bhutan visit. Ground Earth station was built with the help of ISRO. In 2017 India launched the South Asia satellite project with all countries barring Pakistan part of it. Under the project, New Delhi has offered to increase bandwidth on an additional transponder on the satellite for Bhutan as a gift as per the country's requirement.

Indian Space Research Organisation to launch Bhutanese satellite in December

In August 2019, while addressing the students at the Royal University of Bhutan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that no two countries&nbsp;in the world understand each other so well or share so much as India and Bhutan, and that New Delhi and Thimphu are “natural partners” in&nbsp;bringing prosperity to their people.

These words embody the spirit of India - Bhutan collaboration, one that never ceases to keep pace with the demands of our ever changing world.

India and Bhutan stand out as an epitome of exceptional neighbourly relations - a bond that is beyond a mere political tie but instead, is one of friendship and compassion. The friendship is rooted in our Dharma, a sacred thread binding our two countries, carving our connected spiritual heritage. So what we do here in Bhutan is not diplomacy, but instead an authentic friendship we choose each day.

Ours is a bond with a proud legacy of supporting each other over decades. But simultaneously one that is not frozen in time. India and Bhutan are together stepping into the future with confidence and poise, determined to better the lives of our people.

His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas (Together with all, Development for all, Trust of all) is the ideal that inspires us.

Whether it is a project to design and build a satellite from scratch or a project to create a free information highway - our two countries are committed to projects that use cutting-edge technology to give wings to the human imagination.

For example, fin-tech is one of the fastest growing sectors in India, with an endless array of applications that improve the daily lives of people.

Whether it’s scanning a QR code to instantly pay for a cup of coffee (without having to rummage through your bag for cash) or transferring money to a friend at the click of a button using your smartphone, technology has made the movement of money quick and seamless. With over 1,300 fintech start-ups and investments worth USD 5.7 billion from 2014–2018, India has been spearheading many fintech initiatives, providing the canvas for creation and growth.&nbsp;

For two friends that are rooted in tradition yet ever ready to embrace the future, fin-tech opens up a new world of possibilities for&nbsp;cooperation. And thus, I would like to say that today is indeed a special day for India and Bhutan.

In August 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a successful state visit to Bhutan, shortly after winning the general election for a second term. The Joint Statement from that visit became a vision document for our two countries to elevate our engagement.

Notwithstanding the obstacles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the technical teams from the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan and the&nbsp;National Payments Corporation of India collaborated on bringing BHIM- a popular mobile payments application in India- to Bhutan.

The result in practical terms? Any Indian national can now make quick and easy payments in Bhutan by simply scanning the merchant’s QR code&nbsp;with his/her BHIM application.

The money will move smoothly from an Indian bank account to a bank account in Bhutan, obviating the need for&nbsp;Indian nationals to carry cash to Bhutan. It also gives Bhutanese merchants and shopkeepers a new option to accept payments in addition to cash and card from Indian nationals.

The option to make payments at Bhutan’s cafes and shops will also incentivise spending by Indian nationals, who are expected to visit Bhutan&nbsp;in large numbers once the pandemic abates, given Bhutan’s formidable reputation as a top travel destination.

All up - this is yet another illustration of a cooperation that undoubtedly benefits both sides. Today’s success also builds on the earlier accomplishments of the RuPay card, a global card payment network from India, which was introduced in Bhutan in two phases.

Phase I launched during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Bhutan in August 2019 made it possible for RuPay cards issued in India to be accepted&nbsp;at POS terminals across Bhutan.

Phase II launched in November 2020 made the reverse a reality- RuPay cards issued by Bhutanese banks are now accepted across the length and&nbsp;breadth of India. Even in the absence of tourism due to the travel constraints imposed by the global pandemic, the Indian issued Rupay cards have seen a transaction value of around Nu 40 million at Bhutan’s ATMs and PoS terminals.&nbsp;

Similarly, around 2400 RuPay cards have been issued by Bhutan since November 2020 with a transaction volume of over Rs 4 million.

Since it is people who are truly at the heart of the India-Bhutan friendship, this single step of financial integration between our two&nbsp;economies will greatly benefit the people of our two countries. One cannot imagine visiting a foreign country without withdrawing cash and converting the currency in advance. I am proud to say that Bhutan and India are an exception to this rule.

As “Tap, pay, go” quickly becomes the new mantra of the payments industry, India and Bhutan are committed to further explore avenues of&nbsp;collaboration, not only in fintech, but in all areas which allow us to leverage technology for a better future. But for now, we can pat ourselves on the back.

Congratulations India and Bhutan for achieving yet another milestone of bilateral cooperation!

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

In August 2019, while addressing the students at the Royal University of Bhutan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that no two countries in the world understand each other so well or share so much as India and Bhutan, and that New Delhi and Thimphu are “natural partners” in bringing prosperity to their people.

In August 2019, while addressing the students at the Royal University of Bhutan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that no two countries in the world understand each other so well or share so much as India and Bhutan, and that New Delhi and Thimphu are “natural partners” in bringing prosperity to their people. These words embody the spirit of India - Bhutan collaboration, one that never ceases to keep pace with the demands of our ever changing world. India and Bhutan stand out as an epitome of exceptional neighbourly relations - a bond that is beyond a mere political tie but instead, is one of friendship and compassion. The friendship is rooted in our Dharma, a sacred thread binding our two countries, carving our connected spiritual heritage. So what we do here in Bhutan is not diplomacy, but instead an authentic friendship we choose each day. Ours is a bond with a proud legacy of supporting each other over decades. But simultaneously one that is not frozen in time. India and Bhutan are together stepping into the future with confidence and poise, determined to better the lives of our people. His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas (Together with all, Development for all, Trust of all) is the ideal that inspires us. Whether it is a project to design and build a satellite from scratch or a project to create a free information highway - our two countries are committed to projects that use cutting-edge technology to give wings to the human imagination. For example, fin-tech is one of the fastest growing sectors in India, with an endless array of applications that improve the daily lives of people. Whether it’s scanning a QR code to instantly pay for a cup of coffee (without having to rummage through your bag for cash) or transferring money to a friend at the click of a button using your smartphone, technology has made the movement of money quick and seamless. With over 1,300 fintech start-ups and investments worth USD 5.7 billion from 2014–2018, India has been spearheading many fintech initiatives, providing the canvas for creation and growth. For two friends that are rooted in tradition yet ever ready to embrace the future, fin-tech opens up a new world of possibilities for cooperation. And thus, I would like to say that today is indeed a special day for India and Bhutan. In August 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a successful state visit to Bhutan, shortly after winning the general election for a second term. The Joint Statement from that visit became a vision document for our two countries to elevate our engagement. Notwithstanding the obstacles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the technical teams from the Royal Monetary Authority of Bhutan and the National Payments Corporation of India collaborated on bringing BHIM- a popular mobile payments application in India- to Bhutan. The result in practical terms? Any Indian national can now make quick and easy payments in Bhutan by simply scanning the merchant’s QR code with his/her BHIM application. The money will move smoothly from an Indian bank account to a bank account in Bhutan, obviating the need for Indian nationals to carry cash to Bhutan. It also gives Bhutanese merchants and shopkeepers a new option to accept payments in addition to cash and card from Indian nationals. The option to make payments at Bhutan’s cafes and shops will also incentivise spending by Indian nationals, who are expected to visit Bhutan in large numbers once the pandemic abates, given Bhutan’s formidable reputation as a top travel destination. All up - this is yet another illustration of a cooperation that undoubtedly benefits both sides. Today’s success also builds on the earlier accomplishments of the RuPay card, a global card payment network from India, which was introduced in Bhutan in two phases. Phase I launched during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Bhutan in August 2019 made it possible for RuPay cards issued in India to be accepted at POS terminals across Bhutan. Phase II launched in November 2020 made the reverse a reality- RuPay cards issued by Bhutanese banks are now accepted across the length and breadth of India. Even in the absence of tourism due to the travel constraints imposed by the global pandemic, the Indian issued Rupay cards have seen a transaction value of around Nu 40 million at Bhutan’s ATMs and PoS terminals. Similarly, around 2400 RuPay cards have been issued by Bhutan since November 2020 with a transaction volume of over Rs 4 million. Since it is people who are truly at the heart of the India-Bhutan friendship, this single step of financial integration between our two economies will greatly benefit the people of our two countries. One cannot imagine visiting a foreign country without withdrawing cash and converting the currency in advance. I am proud to say that Bhutan and India are an exception to this rule. As “Tap, pay, go” quickly becomes the new mantra of the payments industry, India and Bhutan are committed to further explore avenues of collaboration, not only in fintech, but in all areas which allow us to leverage technology for a better future. But for now, we can pat ourselves on the back. Congratulations India and Bhutan for achieving yet another milestone of bilateral cooperation! (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | 'Tap, Pay, Go': Bhutan welcomes India's Bhim app for digital payments

Bhutan and Germany on Wednesday established diplomatic ties with each other, something that was in the pipeline for a while now.&nbsp;

In a small ceremony at the Bhutanese mission in Delhi, German ambassador to India Walter J Lindner and Bhutan's envoy to India Maj. Gen. V. Namgyel exchanged the diplomatic documents marking the establishment of ties.&nbsp;

The announcement does not involve plans to open resident missions in both countries. Bhutanese foreign ministry statement said, "with the establishment of diplomatic relations, the 2 ambassadors expressed the desire to further deepen the friendship and cooperation between the 2 countries".

The development partnership is the key rationale for establishing ties, with the foreign ministry highlighting, "Germany had been supporting Bhutan's socio-economic development since the 1980s" and "more significantly Bhutan continues to receive support from the EU of which Germany is the largest contributor to the Union's budget".

India has taken "note" of the development with sources pointing out that "we are aware that the two countries already established consular relations in July 2000 and Germany is an important development partner of Bhutan". The sources added," This is a further step on that path."

Before the establishment of ties, official bilateral ties were maintained through the Germany embassy in Delhi, Bhutanese embassy in Brussels. Bhutan already has an Honorary Consul in Germany and vice versa for diplomatic communication.

Bhutan now has diplomatic relations with 53 countries and the European Union. It is interesting to point out, Thimphu does not have any formal diplomatic relation with any P5 country - US, Russia, UK, France or China.

Bhutan and Germany on Wednesday established diplomatic ties with each other, something that was in the pipeline for a while now. In a small ceremony at the Bhutanese mission in Delhi, German ambassador to India Walter J Lindner and Bhutan's envoy to India Maj.

Bhutan and Germany on Wednesday established diplomatic ties with each other, something that was in the pipeline for a while now. In a small ceremony at the Bhutanese mission in Delhi, German ambassador to India Walter J Lindner and Bhutan's envoy to India Maj. Gen. V. Namgyel exchanged the diplomatic documents marking the establishment of ties. The announcement does not involve plans to open resident missions in both countries. Bhutanese foreign ministry statement said, "with the establishment of diplomatic relations, the 2 ambassadors expressed the desire to further deepen the friendship and cooperation between the 2 countries". The development partnership is the key rationale for establishing ties, with the foreign ministry highlighting, "Germany had been supporting Bhutan's socio-economic development since the 1980s" and "more significantly Bhutan continues to receive support from the EU of which Germany is the largest contributor to the Union's budget". India has taken "note" of the development with sources pointing out that "we are aware that the two countries already established consular relations in July 2000 and Germany is an important development partner of Bhutan". The sources added," This is a further step on that path." Before the establishment of ties, official bilateral ties were maintained through the Germany embassy in Delhi, Bhutanese embassy in Brussels. Bhutan already has an Honorary Consul in Germany and vice versa for diplomatic communication. Bhutan now has diplomatic relations with 53 countries and the European Union. It is interesting to point out, Thimphu does not have any formal diplomatic relation with any P5 country - US, Russia, UK, France or China.

Bhutan-Germany establish diplomatic ties; India takes 'note'

Bhutan's Prime minister Lotay Tshering has supported G4 countries bid for United Nations Security Council reforms and a seat at the high table. G4 grouping, that has been calling for UNSC reforms includes India, Germany, Brazil and Japan.

Bhutan's PM in his speech at the United Nations General Assembly said, "Bhutan has also long supported the aspirations of the G4 to serve as Permanent Members to an expanded Security Council, of course, with Africa also appropriately represented."

Earlier this week foreign ministers of G4 countries met and called for urgent reforms "to better reflect contemporary realities".

Bhutan PM also spoke on the COVID-19 crisis and how his country has dealt with the crisis.&nbsp;

Lotay said: "Under direct supervision of our King, we have meticulous surveillance systems in place" which he said includes "close monitoring of our international entry points and timely institution of 21 days quarantine, which is mandatory for everyone entering Bhutan and fully sponsored by the government" &amp; "reliable and free testing facilities are also set up across the country."

Bhutan reported 261 positive COVID-19 cases, of which 192 have recovered. The mortality from COVID-19 remains zero in the country.

Bhutan believes in the concept Gross National Happiness(GNH) highlighted the issue of climate change with PM Lotay saying, "As a key component of GNH, our visionary monarchs emphasised on protection and preservation of our environment. We have the Constitutional mandate to ensure 60 per cent forest cover at all times and to maintain ‘inter-generational equity’ of our natural resources."

"So today, when the world is dealing with issues of climate change, we are grateful for the wise decisions that kept Bhutan carbon negative," Lotay added.

Bhutan's Prime minister Lotay Tshering has supported G4 countries bid for United Nations Security Council reforms and a seat at the high table. G4 grouping, that has been calling for UNSC reforms includes India, Germany, Brazil and Japan.

Bhutan's Prime minister Lotay Tshering has supported G4 countries bid for United Nations Security Council reforms and a seat at the high table. G4 grouping, that has been calling for UNSC reforms includes India, Germany, Brazil and Japan. Bhutan's PM in his speech at the United Nations General Assembly said, "Bhutan has also long supported the aspirations of the G4 to serve as Permanent Members to an expanded Security Council, of course, with Africa also appropriately represented." Earlier this week foreign ministers of G4 countries met and called for urgent reforms "to better reflect contemporary realities". Bhutan PM also spoke on the COVID-19 crisis and how his country has dealt with the crisis. Lotay said: "Under direct supervision of our King, we have meticulous surveillance systems in place" which he said includes "close monitoring of our international entry points and timely institution of 21 days quarantine, which is mandatory for everyone entering Bhutan and fully sponsored by the government" & "reliable and free testing facilities are also set up across the country." Bhutan reported 261 positive COVID-19 cases, of which 192 have recovered. The mortality from COVID-19 remains zero in the country. Bhutan believes in the concept Gross National Happiness(GNH) highlighted the issue of climate change with PM Lotay saying, "As a key component of GNH, our visionary monarchs emphasised on protection and preservation of our environment. We have the Constitutional mandate to ensure 60 per cent forest cover at all times and to maintain ‘inter-generational equity’ of our natural resources." "So today, when the world is dealing with issues of climate change, we are grateful for the wise decisions that kept Bhutan carbon negative," Lotay added.

Bhutan supports G4's bid for UNSC reforms

India and Bhutan have signed concession agreement on the 600 MW Kholongchhu hydroelectric project (KHEL).

The project will be the first-ever Joint Venture project to be implemented in Bhutan. The partners of the project are India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited(SJVNL) and Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC).

Speaking at the signing ceremony via video conference, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said, "commencement of the construction activities of the Project will create economic and employment opportunities in Bhutan in this critical time."

KHEL will be the first Joint Venture company to be implemented under an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) signed in 2014.

"Cooperation in the development of the hydropower sector in Bhutan is the centrepiece of the mutually beneficial economic cooperation between Bhutan and India. Hydropower projects are of paramount importance for both our countries as they will serve to further integrate our economies, bring further prosperity and enhance energy security for both the countries" Bhutan's foreign minister Tandi Dorji said.

On debt financing he called on the "JV partner from the Indian side would need to take the lead" and sought support and "intervention of the Government of India to ensure that the project secures access to the most viable financing at the earliest."

Kholongchu is expected to generate about 2568.88 million units annually.

Calling, Kholongchhu "continuation of our bilateral cooperation" Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj highlighted previous such cooperation on hydro projects like Chukha, Kurichhu, Tala and Mangdechhu all of which "stand as proud examples...epitomising the core of this friendship: partnership for a greater good."

Adding, "With this 7th hydro project (Puna-I and Puna-II working in progress) we further the noble visions of both His Majesty and Prime Minister Modi as we develop even greater trust between our two countries."

India recently completed 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydro Electric Power Project and both sides are in process of expediting the completion of other ongoing projects including the1200MW Punatsangchhu-1 &amp; 1020MW Punatsangchhu-2.

During PM Modi's visit to Bhutan in August 2019, he along with Bhutan's PM inaugurated the 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project.

India and Bhutan have signed concession agreement on the 600 MW Kholongchhu hydroelectric project (KHEL). The project will be the first-ever Joint Venture project to be implemented in Bhutan.

India and Bhutan have signed concession agreement on the 600 MW Kholongchhu hydroelectric project (KHEL). The project will be the first-ever Joint Venture project to be implemented in Bhutan. The partners of the project are India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited(SJVNL) and Druk Green Power Corporation Limited (DGPC). Speaking at the signing ceremony via video conference, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said, "commencement of the construction activities of the Project will create economic and employment opportunities in Bhutan in this critical time." KHEL will be the first Joint Venture company to be implemented under an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) signed in 2014. "Cooperation in the development of the hydropower sector in Bhutan is the centrepiece of the mutually beneficial economic cooperation between Bhutan and India. Hydropower projects are of paramount importance for both our countries as they will serve to further integrate our economies, bring further prosperity and enhance energy security for both the countries" Bhutan's foreign minister Tandi Dorji said. On debt financing he called on the "JV partner from the Indian side would need to take the lead" and sought support and "intervention of the Government of India to ensure that the project secures access to the most viable financing at the earliest." Kholongchu is expected to generate about 2568.88 million units annually. Calling, Kholongchhu "continuation of our bilateral cooperation" Indian envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj highlighted previous such cooperation on hydro projects like Chukha, Kurichhu, Tala and Mangdechhu all of which "stand as proud examples...epitomising the core of this friendship: partnership for a greater good." Adding, "With this 7th hydro project (Puna-I and Puna-II working in progress) we further the noble visions of both His Majesty and Prime Minister Modi as we develop even greater trust between our two countries." India recently completed 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydro Electric Power Project and both sides are in process of expediting the completion of other ongoing projects including the1200MW Punatsangchhu-1 & 1020MW Punatsangchhu-2. During PM Modi's visit to Bhutan in August 2019, he along with Bhutan's PM inaugurated the 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project.

India, Bhutan sign agreement on 600 MW Kholongchhu hydroelectric project

Amid reports of Bhutan stopping the supply of irrigation water to farmers in Assam and adjoining areas, the countries foreign affairs ministry clarified saying that "there is no reason why the flow of water should be stopped at this time".&nbsp;

<a href="Bhutanese authorities pitch in to make sure flow of water to India continues">Also Read:&nbsp;Bhutanese authorities pitch in to make sure flow of water to India continues</a>

"It is a deliberate attempt by vested interests to spread misinformation and cause misunderstanding between the friendly people of Bhutan and Assam," the country's foreign ministry said.&nbsp;

"Baksa and Udalguri districts in Assam have been benefitting from the water sources in Bhutan for many decades and they continue to do so even during the present difficult times when we are faced with the COVID-19 pandemic," it added.

The country's foreign ministry said that since the lockdown in India and closure of Bhutan’s borders due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Assamese farmers were unable to enter Bhutan to maintain the irrigation channels.

"The Samdrup Jongkhar district Officials and the general public have taken the initiative to repair the irrigation channels whenever there are problems to ensure the smooth flow of water to Assam," the ministry said, adding,"Bhutan would like to assure the people of Assam that the government of Bhutan, particularly the Samdrup Jongkhar district authorities, will make every effort to ensure that the disruptions caused by the monsoon rains to the irrigation channels are addressed without delay"

The ministry asked the Samdrup Jongkhar authorities to maintain close contact with their counterparts in Baksa and Udalguri while adding that it it "deeply values age-old ties of friendship and cooperation with the people of India, particularly their close neighbors across the borders in Assam and West Bengal."

Amid reports of Bhutan stopping the supply of irrigation water to farmers in Assam and adjoining areas, the countries foreign affairs ministry clarified saying that "there is no reason why the flow of water should be stopped at this time".

Amid reports of Bhutan stopping the supply of irrigation water to farmers in Assam and adjoining areas, the countries foreign affairs ministry clarified saying that "there is no reason why the flow of water should be stopped at this time". Also Read: Bhutanese authorities pitch in to make sure flow of water to India continues "It is a deliberate attempt by vested interests to spread misinformation and cause misunderstanding between the friendly people of Bhutan and Assam," the country's foreign ministry said. "Baksa and Udalguri districts in Assam have been benefitting from the water sources in Bhutan for many decades and they continue to do so even during the present difficult times when we are faced with the COVID-19 pandemic," it added. The country's foreign ministry said that since the lockdown in India and closure of Bhutan’s borders due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Assamese farmers were unable to enter Bhutan to maintain the irrigation channels. "The Samdrup Jongkhar district Officials and the general public have taken the initiative to repair the irrigation channels whenever there are problems to ensure the smooth flow of water to Assam," the ministry said, adding,"Bhutan would like to assure the people of Assam that the government of Bhutan, particularly the Samdrup Jongkhar district authorities, will make every effort to ensure that the disruptions caused by the monsoon rains to the irrigation channels are addressed without delay" The ministry asked the Samdrup Jongkhar authorities to maintain close contact with their counterparts in Baksa and Udalguri while adding that it it "deeply values age-old ties of friendship and cooperation with the people of India, particularly their close neighbors across the borders in Assam and West Bengal."

No reason to stop flow of water to Assam, clarifies Bhutan

India ensured that essential supplies to Bhutan continued during the ongoing pan-India lockdown with around 500 vehicles carrying essential goods entering the country on a daily basis, India's Envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj has said.

Speaking exclusively to our principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Thimphu, Envoy Ruchira Kamboj said New Delhi has sent three medical consignments to the country which included Hydroxychloroquine and made sure around 1,700 stranded Bhutanese citizens in eight Indian cities can go back via special Druk Air flights.

She also lauded the "proactive" measures taken by the Bhutanese government to deal with the COVID-19 crisis and called the country's containment model for COVID-19 as a "model for many others".

WION: How has the Mission reached out to Indians in the country?

Ruchira Kamboj: Just to give you an example. Bhutan registered its first COVID-19 case on March 5, an American tourist who had flown into Bhutan from Guwahati on a Druk Air flight along with his partner (American) and seven Indian nationals who were visiting Bhutan for tourism.&nbsp;

All the primary contacts of the US tourist including the seven Indians were immediately placed in quarantine by the government of Bhutan.&nbsp;

Meantime, the Mission reached out to the Indians and maintained close contact with them right through their quarantine.&nbsp;

Upon discharge, the Embassy facilitated their safe return through the land border through close coordination with Bhutanese officials.&nbsp;

This "action" ensured that all 7 Indians were able to get back home before the imposition of the lockdown in India. This is just one example. There have been some other cases of this nature, where the Embassy has reached out/offered a helping hand to Indian nationals in Bhutan, in these COVID-19 times.&nbsp;

As for the Indian diaspora and as you probably know, Bhutan does not have Indian diaspora as such.&nbsp;

Indian nationals in Bhutan comprise, inter-alia, employees of hydroelectric power projects, DANTAK (Border Roads Organization), Druk PNB Bank, private Bhutanese companies, lecturers on deputation to the Royal University of Bhutan under Government of India’s Colombo Plan Scheme and skilled labour engaged in power projects, the construction industry, wood-based industries etc.&nbsp;

Needless to add, the embassy has been in regular touch with our nationals to brief them on the COVID-19 situation in India and assist them on any and all fronts. With regard to Indian labourers resident in Bhutan, we are in touch with Bhutanese interlocutors and industry/factory owners who are taking care of their residential and livelihood-related needs.&nbsp;

There are no work-permit related issues. The Mission stands ready to assist any Indian who may wish to return home after the lockdown in India is relaxed sufficiently. Meantime, our emergency telephone lines remain open 24/7, which has been reflected across all our social media platforms as well.

WION: How are India and Bhutan cooperating with each other on the COVID-19 crisis?

Ruchira Kamboj: India-Bhutan cooperation continues apace in COVID-19 times encompassing myriad areas, including, provision of essentials (food, fuel and medicines) as well as our support to the re-prioritization of projects envisaged by the Royal Government of Bhutan under the 12th Five Year Plan to bolster Bhutan’s Economic stimulus plan of Nu 30 billion.&nbsp;

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised that the fight against COVID-19 is not just one country’s, but all of humanity’s. Our ancient Indian heritage sets out that the world is one family, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”. He has repeatedly underscored the need to put human beings at the centre of our vision of global prosperity and cooperation, and to freely and openly share the benefits of medical research and development.&nbsp;

In this spirit, we have been honoured to hand over three consignments of medical supplies to Bhutan. The third shipment, that contained essential medicines including Hydroxychloroquine, was handed over to Bhutan on April 27.&nbsp;

I will also add that the government of India has made all efforts to ensure the uninterrupted movement of essential as well as non-essential commodities to Bhutan. Around 500 vehicles carrying essential goods and supplies enter Bhutan on a daily basis, a figure that is comparable to the number of vehicles prior to the lockdown in India.&nbsp;

India's "gesture" has been lauded by His Majesty the King of Bhutan as well as the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dr. Lotay Tshering despite lockdown restrictions. India has also facilitated the maximum number of special Druk Air flights to ensure the return of Bhutanese students and nationals, ordinarily resident in India.&nbsp;

1,716 Bhutanese students from Chennai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Mohali, Mumbai, Amritsar, Chandigarh and Delhi have been able to return to home territory, as an outcome of these efforts.&nbsp;

India’s assistance to Bhutan is, however, not just limited to supply of essentials and medicines or facilitating the return of Bhutanese nationals from India. We have assured Bhutan that India will stand in solidarity as it re-calibrates its development pathways in the wake of COVID-19. Both the Prime Minister and the foreign minister of Bhutan have acknowledged this support publicly through tweets.&nbsp;

It is indeed most gracious of Bhutan to have acknowledged this friendship between two special friends.&nbsp;

Significantly, India’s efforts have also been lauded by the Bhutanese public, in particular our support in ensuring essential supplies to Bhutan during the lockdown, and the handing over of medical supplies, as would any dear friend to another, in times of need.

WION: How has been the cooperation under the SAARC umbrella?&nbsp;

Ruchira Kamboj: There was a SAARC leaders video-conference and following that significant initiative of India's Prime Minister Modi, India has offered a number of capacity building programmes for Bhutanese in the health sector and other areas. Bhutanese health professional participated in the SAARC meeting of health professionals.&nbsp;

Thereafter, Bhutanese officials participated in two live web conferences on COVID-19 programme under the eITEC programme of MEA. The first web meet was by AIIMS Raipur, another one by post-Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh. Also going forward, Bhutan has participated and also continues to participate in all the various SAARC led initiative these by bringing our two countries even closer by through the regional front.&nbsp;

WION: Are we sharing any containment models or capacity building programmes for Bhutan?

Ruchira Kamboj: Yes, very much so. Bhutan has been closely following developments in India and various initiatives taken by us to contain the spread of COVID-19 and they have expressed the deepest admiration and strong leadership of Prime Minister Modi and we have from time to time communicated all the details.&nbsp;

I must tell you something very interesting, that Bhutan is virtually COVID-19 free and that is because they have led from the front and have followed a proactive policy that has enabled them to contain the spread of the virus within the country.&nbsp;

During the course of his recent telephone conversation with Bhutan PM Dr Lotay Tshering, Prime Minister Modi had expressed his admiration for the personal touch and wisdom of His Majesty The King of Bhutan and the Prime Minister of Bhutan, both of whom have led from the front to limit the spread of infection within Bhutan.&nbsp;

Bhutan has been hugely successful till date in containing COVID-19 through its emergency response, by a simultaneous closure of borders, a 21-day mandatory quarantine in designated facilities for all persons returning to Bhutan, a combination of proactive testing and tracing along with compulsory testing of all quarantined persons before discharge.&nbsp;

In fact, Bhutan’s containment model for COVID-19 could well be a model/exemplar for many others.&nbsp;

WION: How has the situation been on the ground in Bhutan? How are Indian diplomats facing the situation?

Ruchira Kamboj: Bhutan has had only seven confirmed cases of COVID-19 with no deaths. Out of the seven COVID-19 cases, five persons have recovered from the disease. So far, there has been no local or community transmission in the country.

While there has been no lockdown in Bhutan, the country is in a partial lockdown mode with all borders closed, all educational institutions indefinitely closed for now, ‘work from home’ in many government &amp; private offices, emphasis on physical distancing in public places and public transport and restrictions on public gatherings.

The Health Ministry of Bhutan has developed two apps - ‘Druk Trace’ and ‘Stay Home’ to facilitate contact tracing in public places and public transport and to monitor/track people placed in quarantine.&nbsp;

Municipal officials and ‘Dessups’ (volunteers) are ensuring strict implementation of the restrictions and COVID-19 precautions imposed by the government across the country.

The ground situation in Bhutan is better than many other parts of the world. As far as embassy personnel are concerned, we are fortunate to be resident in the self-contained India House Estate in Thimphu.

We have self-imposed restrictions on the movements of diplomats and officials out of the mission. Our focus has been on minimal contact with outsiders, with COVID-19 specific precautions and social distancing taking precedence in all our work.&nbsp;

Despite these restrictions, we are fully functional in the spirit that “Digital is the new normal and that the Internet in the new meeting room!”. Video conferences and webinars are the order of the day and where necessary, we have actual meetings as well, given that Bhutan is virtually coronavirus free.&nbsp;

The effort is also to keep our people-to-people contacts robust in these testing times. In this vein and taking a cue from Prime Minister Modi’s 3D animated videos, online yoga and music classes have been launched by the embassy from April 1 onwards, which have proved to be hugely popular with Bhutanese nationals.

Likewise, Prime Minister Modi’s article on “Life in the era of COVID-19” has resonated well with the people of Bhutan, particularly with the youth and student community.&nbsp;

Both the Royal University of Bhutan and Royal Thimphu College has posted PM’s article on their social media handles. Indeed, these times of COVID-19 have thrown up new challenges for us to pursue our priorities and focus on innovative ways to achieve our objectives to further the special India-Bhutan relationship.

India ensured that essential supplies to Bhutan continued during the ongoing pan-India lockdown with around 500 vehicles carrying essential goods entering the country on a daily basis, India's Envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj has said.

India ensured that essential supplies to Bhutan continued during the ongoing pan-India lockdown with around 500 vehicles carrying essential goods entering the country on a daily basis, India's Envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj has said. Speaking exclusively to our principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Thimphu, Envoy Ruchira Kamboj said New Delhi has sent three medical consignments to the country which included Hydroxychloroquine and made sure around 1,700 stranded Bhutanese citizens in eight Indian cities can go back via special Druk Air flights. She also lauded the "proactive" measures taken by the Bhutanese government to deal with the COVID-19 crisis and called the country's containment model for COVID-19 as a "model for many others". WION: How has the Mission reached out to Indians in the country? Ruchira Kamboj: Just to give you an example. Bhutan registered its first COVID-19 case on March 5, an American tourist who had flown into Bhutan from Guwahati on a Druk Air flight along with his partner (American) and seven Indian nationals who were visiting Bhutan for tourism. All the primary contacts of the US tourist including the seven Indians were immediately placed in quarantine by the government of Bhutan. Meantime, the Mission reached out to the Indians and maintained close contact with them right through their quarantine. Upon discharge, the Embassy facilitated their safe return through the land border through close coordination with Bhutanese officials. This "action" ensured that all 7 Indians were able to get back home before the imposition of the lockdown in India. This is just one example. There have been some other cases of this nature, where the Embassy has reached out/offered a helping hand to Indian nationals in Bhutan, in these COVID-19 times. As for the Indian diaspora and as you probably know, Bhutan does not have Indian diaspora as such. Indian nationals in Bhutan comprise, inter-alia, employees of hydroelectric power projects, DANTAK (Border Roads Organization), Druk PNB Bank, private Bhutanese companies, lecturers on deputation to the Royal University of Bhutan under Government of India’s Colombo Plan Scheme and skilled labour engaged in power projects, the construction industry, wood-based industries etc. Needless to add, the embassy has been in regular touch with our nationals to brief them on the COVID-19 situation in India and assist them on any and all fronts. With regard to Indian labourers resident in Bhutan, we are in touch with Bhutanese interlocutors and industry/factory owners who are taking care of their residential and livelihood-related needs. There are no work-permit related issues. The Mission stands ready to assist any Indian who may wish to return home after the lockdown in India is relaxed sufficiently. Meantime, our emergency telephone lines remain open 24/7, which has been reflected across all our social media platforms as well. WION: How are India and Bhutan cooperating with each other on the COVID-19 crisis? Ruchira Kamboj: India-Bhutan cooperation continues apace in COVID-19 times encompassing myriad areas, including, provision of essentials (food, fuel and medicines) as well as our support to the re-prioritization of projects envisaged by the Royal Government of Bhutan under the 12th Five Year Plan to bolster Bhutan’s Economic stimulus plan of Nu 30 billion. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised that the fight against COVID-19 is not just one country’s, but all of humanity’s. Our ancient Indian heritage sets out that the world is one family, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”. He has repeatedly underscored the need to put human beings at the centre of our vision of global prosperity and cooperation, and to freely and openly share the benefits of medical research and development. In this spirit, we have been honoured to hand over three consignments of medical supplies to Bhutan. The third shipment, that contained essential medicines including Hydroxychloroquine, was handed over to Bhutan on April 27. I will also add that the government of India has made all efforts to ensure the uninterrupted movement of essential as well as non-essential commodities to Bhutan. Around 500 vehicles carrying essential goods and supplies enter Bhutan on a daily basis, a figure that is comparable to the number of vehicles prior to the lockdown in India. India's "gesture" has been lauded by His Majesty the King of Bhutan as well as the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dr. Lotay Tshering despite lockdown restrictions. India has also facilitated the maximum number of special Druk Air flights to ensure the return of Bhutanese students and nationals, ordinarily resident in India. 1,716 Bhutanese students from Chennai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Mohali, Mumbai, Amritsar, Chandigarh and Delhi have been able to return to home territory, as an outcome of these efforts. India’s assistance to Bhutan is, however, not just limited to supply of essentials and medicines or facilitating the return of Bhutanese nationals from India. We have assured Bhutan that India will stand in solidarity as it re-calibrates its development pathways in the wake of COVID-19. Both the Prime Minister and the foreign minister of Bhutan have acknowledged this support publicly through tweets. It is indeed most gracious of Bhutan to have acknowledged this friendship between two special friends. Significantly, India’s efforts have also been lauded by the Bhutanese public, in particular our support in ensuring essential supplies to Bhutan during the lockdown, and the handing over of medical supplies, as would any dear friend to another, in times of need. WION: How has been the cooperation under the SAARC umbrella? Ruchira Kamboj: There was a SAARC leaders video-conference and following that significant initiative of India's Prime Minister Modi, India has offered a number of capacity building programmes for Bhutanese in the health sector and other areas. Bhutanese health professional participated in the SAARC meeting of health professionals. Thereafter, Bhutanese officials participated in two live web conferences on COVID-19 programme under the eITEC programme of MEA. The first web meet was by AIIMS Raipur, another one by post-Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh. Also going forward, Bhutan has participated and also continues to participate in all the various SAARC led initiative these by bringing our two countries even closer by through the regional front. WION: Are we sharing any containment models or capacity building programmes for Bhutan? Ruchira Kamboj: Yes, very much so. Bhutan has been closely following developments in India and various initiatives taken by us to contain the spread of COVID-19 and they have expressed the deepest admiration and strong leadership of Prime Minister Modi and we have from time to time communicated all the details. I must tell you something very interesting, that Bhutan is virtually COVID-19 free and that is because they have led from the front and have followed a proactive policy that has enabled them to contain the spread of the virus within the country. During the course of his recent telephone conversation with Bhutan PM Dr Lotay Tshering, Prime Minister Modi had expressed his admiration for the personal touch and wisdom of His Majesty The King of Bhutan and the Prime Minister of Bhutan, both of whom have led from the front to limit the spread of infection within Bhutan. Bhutan has been hugely successful till date in containing COVID-19 through its emergency response, by a simultaneous closure of borders, a 21-day mandatory quarantine in designated facilities for all persons returning to Bhutan, a combination of proactive testing and tracing along with compulsory testing of all quarantined persons before discharge. In fact, Bhutan’s containment model for COVID-19 could well be a model/exemplar for many others. WION: How has the situation been on the ground in Bhutan? How are Indian diplomats facing the situation? Ruchira Kamboj: Bhutan has had only seven confirmed cases of COVID-19 with no deaths. Out of the seven COVID-19 cases, five persons have recovered from the disease. So far, there has been no local or community transmission in the country. While there has been no lockdown in Bhutan, the country is in a partial lockdown mode with all borders closed, all educational institutions indefinitely closed for now, ‘work from home’ in many government & private offices, emphasis on physical distancing in public places and public transport and restrictions on public gatherings. The Health Ministry of Bhutan has developed two apps - ‘Druk Trace’ and ‘Stay Home’ to facilitate contact tracing in public places and public transport and to monitor/track people placed in quarantine. Municipal officials and ‘Dessups’ (volunteers) are ensuring strict implementation of the restrictions and COVID-19 precautions imposed by the government across the country. The ground situation in Bhutan is better than many other parts of the world. As far as embassy personnel are concerned, we are fortunate to be resident in the self-contained India House Estate in Thimphu. We have self-imposed restrictions on the movements of diplomats and officials out of the mission. Our focus has been on minimal contact with outsiders, with COVID-19 specific precautions and social distancing taking precedence in all our work. Despite these restrictions, we are fully functional in the spirit that “Digital is the new normal and that the Internet in the new meeting room!”. Video conferences and webinars are the order of the day and where necessary, we have actual meetings as well, given that Bhutan is virtually coronavirus free. The effort is also to keep our people-to-people contacts robust in these testing times. In this vein and taking a cue from Prime Minister Modi’s 3D animated videos, online yoga and music classes have been launched by the embassy from April 1 onwards, which have proved to be hugely popular with Bhutanese nationals. Likewise, Prime Minister Modi’s article on “Life in the era of COVID-19” has resonated well with the people of Bhutan, particularly with the youth and student community. Both the Royal University of Bhutan and Royal Thimphu College has posted PM’s article on their social media handles. Indeed, these times of COVID-19 have thrown up new challenges for us to pursue our priorities and focus on innovative ways to achieve our objectives to further the special India-Bhutan relationship.

COVID-19 crisis: Ensured essential supplies to Bhutan during lockdown, says Indian envoy Ruchira Kamboj

India and Bhutan on Friday held talks on bilateral development cooperation and reviewed New Delhi's execution of various projects in the Himalayan nation.

The second annual India-Bhutan development cooperation talks were held here. The Indian delegation was led by TS Tirumurti, Secretary (Economic Relations), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and the delegation from Bhutan was led by Kinga Singye, Foreign Secretary of Bhutan, according to an MEA statement.

The Indian Ambassador in Thimphu Ruchira Kamboj also attended the talks.

Both sides recalled the successful and productive visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Bhutan in August this year with several significant outcomes which included the inauguration of Mangdechu HEP and Ground Earth Station for South Asia Satellite and launch of RuPay card in Bhutan.

"They also recalled the very successful visit to India of Prime Minister of Bhutan Dr Lotay Tshering in December 2018 and in May 2019 for the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Foreign Minister of Bhutan, Dr Tandi Dorji also visited India from 17-23 November 2019 and held talks with the External Affairs Minister of India," the statement said.

The annual development cooperation talks is an important bilateral mechanism to review the entire gamut of India`s development partnership with Bhutan.

"Government of India has committed assistance of Rs. 4,500 crores for implementation of development projects and Rs. 400 crores for transitional trade support facility during Bhutan's 12th Five Year Plan (2018 - 2023). 51 large and intermediate projects and 359 Small Development Projects (SDPs)/High Impact Community Development Projects (HICPDs) are at various stages of implementation under the 12th Five Year Plan," the statement said.

With Bhutan's 12th Five Year Plan (2018-2023) entering its second year, the two sides reviewed and expressed satisfaction at the overall progress of the ongoing Project Tied Assistance (PTA) projects, as well as the SDPs/HICDPs.

Bhutanese Foreign Secretary commended India's role in the socio-economic transformation of Bhutan and also highlighted the impact of HICDPs at the grassroots level. During the talks, both sides also agreed to implement 21 new PTA projects, in addition to 51 ongoing ones.

"India deeply values its privileged partnership with Bhutan. The Indian side is committed to continuing support to Bhutan in its development efforts," it said.

The two sides agreed to hold the next development cooperation talks in 2020 in Thimphu on a mutually agreed date.

The talks were held in a friendly atmosphere, keeping with the close and friendly ties between the two countries, the statement said.

India and Bhutan on Friday held talks on bilateral development cooperation and reviewed New Delhi's execution of various projects in the Himalayan nation. The second annual India-Bhutan development cooperation talks were held here.

India and Bhutan on Friday held talks on bilateral development cooperation and reviewed New Delhi's execution of various projects in the Himalayan nation. The second annual India-Bhutan development cooperation talks were held here. The Indian delegation was led by TS Tirumurti, Secretary (Economic Relations), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and the delegation from Bhutan was led by Kinga Singye, Foreign Secretary of Bhutan, according to an MEA statement. The Indian Ambassador in Thimphu Ruchira Kamboj also attended the talks. Both sides recalled the successful and productive visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Bhutan in August this year with several significant outcomes which included the inauguration of Mangdechu HEP and Ground Earth Station for South Asia Satellite and launch of RuPay card in Bhutan. "They also recalled the very successful visit to India of Prime Minister of Bhutan Dr Lotay Tshering in December 2018 and in May 2019 for the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Foreign Minister of Bhutan, Dr Tandi Dorji also visited India from 17-23 November 2019 and held talks with the External Affairs Minister of India," the statement said. The annual development cooperation talks is an important bilateral mechanism to review the entire gamut of India`s development partnership with Bhutan. "Government of India has committed assistance of Rs. 4,500 crores for implementation of development projects and Rs. 400 crores for transitional trade support facility during Bhutan's 12th Five Year Plan (2018 - 2023). 51 large and intermediate projects and 359 Small Development Projects (SDPs)/High Impact Community Development Projects (HICPDs) are at various stages of implementation under the 12th Five Year Plan," the statement said. With Bhutan's 12th Five Year Plan (2018-2023) entering its second year, the two sides reviewed and expressed satisfaction at the overall progress of the ongoing Project Tied Assistance (PTA) projects, as well as the SDPs/HICDPs. Bhutanese Foreign Secretary commended India's role in the socio-economic transformation of Bhutan and also highlighted the impact of HICDPs at the grassroots level. During the talks, both sides also agreed to implement 21 new PTA projects, in addition to 51 ongoing ones. "India deeply values its privileged partnership with Bhutan. The Indian side is committed to continuing support to Bhutan in its development efforts," it said. The two sides agreed to hold the next development cooperation talks in 2020 in Thimphu on a mutually agreed date. The talks were held in a friendly atmosphere, keeping with the close and friendly ties between the two countries, the statement said.

India, Bhutan hold talks on development cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India-Bhutan partnership forms an important pillar of Indian government's 'Neighbourhood First'&nbsp;policy and expressed confidence that his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-bhutan-on-august-17-18-will-focus-on-space-hydropower-and-rupay-cards-243258">two-day trip beginning Saturday</a> will promote the time-tested ties between the two countries.

"India-Bhutan partnership today is of a special character and substance and forms an important pillar of Government of India's 'Neighbourhood First'&nbsp;policy. I am confident that my visit will promote our time-tested and valued friendship with Bhutan and consolidate it further for the prosperous future and progress of the people of both our countries," he said in a pre-departure statement.

Modi added that his visit to Bhutan in the beginning of the current term reflects the high importance that the Government attaches to India's relations with the Himalayan nation.

Calling Bhutan a "trusted friend and neighbour", Modi said, "I will be on a State Visit to Bhutan on 17-18 August 2019. India and Bhutan enjoy excellent bilateral ties exemplified by our extensive development partnership, mutually beneficial hydro-power co-operation, and strong trade and economic linkages. These are, reinforced by a shared spiritual heritage and robust people-to-people ties."

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In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with H.M. the King, H.M. the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and <a href="https://twitter.com/PMBhutan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMBhutan</a> on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1162340576760483840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Exuding confidence over his visit to Bhutan, he said, "Both countries jointly celebrated the Golden Jubilee of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations last year. I am confident that my visit will promote our time-tested and valued friendship with Bhutan and consolidate it further for the prosperous future and progress of the people of both our countries."

Taking to Twitter, Modi said, "In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with HM&nbsp;the King, HM&nbsp;the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and PM Bhutan on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan."

Preparations to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi are in full swing in Bhutan. The leader is expected to arrive in Paro on August 17 for a two-day bilateral visit.

India and Bhutan are expected to sign 10 Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) during the official engagement.

On the second day of his visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to visit the National Memorial Chorten.

He will also be attending a cultural performance at Tashichhodzong - a Buddhist monastery - hosted in honour of the visiting leader.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India-Bhutan partnership forms an important pillar of Indian government's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and expressed confidence that his two-day trip beginning Saturday will promote the time-tested ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India-Bhutan partnership forms an important pillar of Indian government's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and expressed confidence that his two-day trip beginning Saturday will promote the time-tested ties between the two countries. "India-Bhutan partnership today is of a special character and substance and forms an important pillar of Government of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. I am confident that my visit will promote our time-tested and valued friendship with Bhutan and consolidate it further for the prosperous future and progress of the people of both our countries," he said in a pre-departure statement. Modi added that his visit to Bhutan in the beginning of the current term reflects the high importance that the Government attaches to India's relations with the Himalayan nation. Calling Bhutan a "trusted friend and neighbour", Modi said, "I will be on a State Visit to Bhutan on 17-18 August 2019. India and Bhutan enjoy excellent bilateral ties exemplified by our extensive development partnership, mutually beneficial hydro-power co-operation, and strong trade and economic linkages. These are, reinforced by a shared spiritual heritage and robust people-to-people ties." In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with H.M. the King, H.M. the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and @PMBhutan on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 16, 2019 × Exuding confidence over his visit to Bhutan, he said, "Both countries jointly celebrated the Golden Jubilee of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations last year. I am confident that my visit will promote our time-tested and valued friendship with Bhutan and consolidate it further for the prosperous future and progress of the people of both our countries." Taking to Twitter, Modi said, "In Bhutan, I look forward to having fruitful discussions with HM the King, HM the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and PM Bhutan on the entire gamut of our bilateral relations. I also look forward to addressing young Bhutanese students at the prestigious Royal University of Bhutan." Preparations to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi are in full swing in Bhutan. The leader is expected to arrive in Paro on August 17 for a two-day bilateral visit. India and Bhutan are expected to sign 10 Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) during the official engagement. On the second day of his visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to visit the National Memorial Chorten. He will also be attending a cultural performance at Tashichhodzong - a Buddhist monastery - hosted in honour of the visiting leader.

'We enjoy excellent bilateral ties,' says PM Modi ahead of 2-day Bhutan visit

The annual Mountain Echoes literary festival, in its ninth edition, will celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan.&nbsp

An initiative of the India-Bhutan Foundation and Indian literary agency, Siyahi, the festival that begins on August 23 in Thimphu, will pay tribute to the rich cultural ties between the two nations.

The three-day festival will celebrate untouched beauty, unexplored ideas and unstoppable voices from the heart of the Himalayas, and focus on subjects like spirituality and philosophy, performing arts, environmental conservation, food, as well as film and theatre, among others.&nbsp

The inaugural session will see General V Namgyel, Bhutan's ambassador to India and Jaideep Sarkar, India's Ambassador to Bhutan, in conversation with Dasho Chewang Rinzin, Deputy Chamberlain to his Majesty the King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, leading a discourse on 50 years of friendship between India and Bhutan.&nbsp

The festival will also see sessions by Andrew Quintman, a scholar of Buddhism in Tibet, authors and environmentalists Daniel C Taylor and Dave Goulson, celebrated spoken word poet Sarah Kay, renowned Indian singer Usha Uthup, and Indian actors and theatre veterans Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah.&nbsp

Other prominent speakers will include Nilanjana Roy, author of "The Wildings", Kunzang Choden, Bhutan's first woman writer to write an English novel, L Somi Roy, author of "Binodini: A Photographic Memoir", Chador Wangmo, author of various illustrated children's books, Kezang Dorji, one of Bhutan's most loved rappers, Dechen Roder, director of "Honeygiver Among the Dogs", and actress Tandin Bidha.

"Mountain Echoes, the Bhutan Literary Festival, is an exuberant celebration of cultural connectivities, resonating with the joys of books and cinema, the shared narratives of music and folklore , food and sport, as well as deep spiritual perspectives, and the challenges of our changing world.&nbsp

"This year, we also have a special and important focus honoring the strong ties between India and Bhutan in their 50th year of diplomatic relations," Namita Gokhale, founder and co-director of the festival, said.&nbsp

This year the festival will combine the breathtaking locales of Bhutan with its cultural prowess.

"The niche festival will spark the imagination of both local and global audiences through a diverse range of electrifying conversations," Tshering Tashi, eminent Bhutanese author and festival co-director, said.&nbsp

The festival will also explore global and locally relevant subjects related to natural history, travel and poetry, including a tribute to 50 years of the Beatles in India, amongst others. 
It will come to a close on August 25.&nbsp

An initiative of the India-Bhutan Foundation and Indian literary agency, Siyahi, the festival that begins on August 23 in Thimphu, will pay tribute to the rich cultural ties between the two nations

The annual Mountain Echoes literary festival, in its ninth edition, will celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan. An initiative of the India-Bhutan Foundation and Indian literary agency, Siyahi, the festival that begins on August 23 in Thimphu, will pay tribute to the rich cultural ties between the two nations. The three-day festival will celebrate untouched beauty, unexplored ideas and unstoppable voices from the heart of the Himalayas, and focus on subjects like spirituality and philosophy, performing arts, environmental conservation, food, as well as film and theatre, among others. The inaugural session will see General V Namgyel, Bhutan's ambassador to India and Jaideep Sarkar, India's Ambassador to Bhutan, in conversation with Dasho Chewang Rinzin, Deputy Chamberlain to his Majesty the King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, leading a discourse on 50 years of friendship between India and Bhutan. The festival will also see sessions by Andrew Quintman, a scholar of Buddhism in Tibet, authors and environmentalists Daniel C Taylor and Dave Goulson, celebrated spoken word poet Sarah Kay, renowned Indian singer Usha Uthup, and Indian actors and theatre veterans Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah. Other prominent speakers will include Nilanjana Roy, author of "The Wildings", Kunzang Choden, Bhutan's first woman writer to write an English novel, L Somi Roy, author of "Binodini: A Photographic Memoir", Chador Wangmo, author of various illustrated children's books, Kezang Dorji, one of Bhutan's most loved rappers, Dechen Roder, director of "Honeygiver Among the Dogs", and actress Tandin Bidha. "Mountain Echoes, the Bhutan Literary Festival, is an exuberant celebration of cultural connectivities, resonating with the joys of books and cinema, the shared narratives of music and folklore , food and sport, as well as deep spiritual perspectives, and the challenges of our changing world. "This year, we also have a special and important focus honoring the strong ties between India and Bhutan in their 50th year of diplomatic relations," Namita Gokhale, founder and co-director of the festival, said. This year the festival will combine the breathtaking locales of Bhutan with its cultural prowess. "The niche festival will spark the imagination of both local and global audiences through a diverse range of electrifying conversations," Tshering Tashi, eminent Bhutanese author and festival co-director, said. The festival will also explore global and locally relevant subjects related to natural history, travel and poetry, including a tribute to 50 years of the Beatles in India, amongst others. It will come to a close on August 25.

9th Mountain Echoes Lit Fest to celebrate 50 years of India- Bhutan ties

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