PM Modi : India Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Bhutan was a watershed moment in India-Bhutan relations, with the highlight being his meeting with Bhutan’s respected Fourth King, Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck. PM Modi’s visit coincided with the 70th birth anniversary festivities of the Fourth King, also known as K4, and included extensive meetings with Bhutan’s current monarch, King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck. Warm receptions and cultural activities highlighted the occasion, which recognized India and Bhutan’s long-standing friendship and mutual respect.
#WATCH | Bhutan | Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Bhutan's fourth King Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck
(Source: DD News) pic.twitter.com/gStwfQ92eL
— ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2025
PM Modi : Strategic bilateral talks
PM Modi previously conducted thorough talks in Thimphu on important pillars of India-Bhutan cooperation. Both sides talked about ways to advance collaborative efforts in energy, capacity building, connectivity, defense, and technology. PM Modi underlined India’s continued support for Bhutan’s development, expressing pleasure in India’s partnership as a neighbor and close friend. The parties also discussed regional and global problems, reiterating their common vision of stability and partnership.
Had a wonderful meeting with His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. Appreciated his extensive efforts over the years towards further cementing India-Bhutan ties. Discussed cooperation in energy, trade, technology and connectivity. Lauded the progress in the Gelephu Mindfulness City… pic.twitter.com/It8O8TTYbi
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2025
Spiritual and cultural ties
A notable highlight of the visit was the dignified reception of Lord Buddha’s Sacred Relics brought from India, which coincided with the Global Peace Prayer Festival and the Fourth King’s birthday. PM Modi stated that the way these relics were received demonstrated the deep spiritual and cultural links between the peoples of India and Bhutan, which are anchored in shared Buddhist heritage and principles of peace and harmony.
Hydropower diplomacy: Punatsangchhu-II inauguration.
One of the most noteworthy events was the joint inauguration of the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project by Prime Minister Modi and King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. This significant project, described as an enduring emblem of bilateral friendship, strengthens energy cooperation, which is one of the most important aspects of India-Bhutan relations. The event also featured the signing of multiple MoUs for renewable energy and healthcare, as well as the introduction of additional lines of credit to help Bhutan’s development.
Reaffirming a distinctive bilateral model.
The visit highlighted India and Bhutan’s exceptional neighborly ties, which include mutual trust, regular high-level visits, and active engagement in socioeconomic and strategic sectors. PM Modi’s talks and joint activities with Bhutan’s reigning and former kings are interpreted as affirmations of India’s longstanding support for Bhutan’s aims and aspirations, with vows to future collaboration in a variety of fields. India and Bhutan have a long-standing friendship based on cultural links and a common vision for prosperity and peace in the Himalayas.
