King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan is scheduled to make an official visit to India from November 3 to 10. He will be accompanied by senior officials from the Royal Government of Bhutan. During his visit, the King will meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs.
Additionally, the Ministry of External Affairs mentioned that the External Affairs Minister and other senior Indian government officials will call on His Majesty the King of Bhutan during his visit. The King’s itinerary also includes visits to the Indian states of Assam and Maharashtra.
This visit is a follow-up to the King’s previous visit to India earlier in April this year, which generated considerable interest, particularly due to the increased attention on the Doklam issue.
Doklam is an area disputed between China and Bhutan located near their tri-junction with India. Unlike China and Bhutan, India does not claim Doklam but supports Bhutan’s claim.
The conversations between these top leaders were lauded for their warmth and productivity, culminating in the formulation of an extensive five-point plan to enhance India’s enduring ties with Bhutan.
The official statement emphasized the distinctive bonds of friendship and cooperation that exist between India and Bhutan, underpinned by a deep understanding and mutual trust.
The upcoming visit offers a platform for both sides to evaluate and enhance their extensive bilateral cooperation across various sectors. The discussions regarding the Doklam issue is expected to continue to be a focal point.
In essence, the intertwined and inseparable nature of security concerns between India and Bhutan is clear, and the two nations have a longstanding history of engaging in close discussions on matters related to their shared security and interests.
(Inputs from ANI)
