PM Modi's Bhutan visit: Meets former King Wangchuck, appreciates efforts in building ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a two-day visit to Bhutan, where he met Bhutan's former King Jigme Singye Wangchuck on Wednesday. He appreciated the King's extensive efforts towards further cementing ties between India and Bhutan.

Taking to social media, the PM wrote about the meeting, "Had a wonderful meeting with His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. Appreciated his extensive efforts towards further cementing India-Bhutan ties. Lauded the progress in the Gelephu Mindfulness City Project, which aligns with our Act East Policy."

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

The two also discussed the South Asian neighbours' cooperation in energy, trade, technology, and connectivity.  

The External Affairs Ministry further stated, "PM Modi also thanked His Majesty for his wise counsel and guidance in further enhancing the special India-Bhutan friendship." The Prime Minister conveyed the best wishes of the government and people of India for the former King's continued good health, well-being, and a long life." 

Earlier on Tuesday, he had addressed an event at Changlimethang Stadium in the Himalayan country to mark the 70th birth anniversary of Bhutan's fourth 'Druk Gyalpo' Jigme Singye Wangchuk. There is also an ongoing Global Peace Prayer Festival on this occasion, with a display of special Buddha relics, which are from India. 

He said that India and Bhutan have shared a deep spiritual and cultural bond for ages, and it was his commitment to participate in this "important occasion." PM Modi further underlined the King's transformative tenure, which witnessed the emergence of Bhutan as a "modern nation" state and as a constitutional democratic monarchy. 

Adding, "Under the fourth King's leadership, Bhutan introduced the unique concept of gross national happiness, blending economic growth with sustainability." 

"He is a confluence of wisdom, simplicity, courage, and selfless service to the nation. He played a decisive role in establishing democratic systems in Bhutan and establishing peace in border areas." 

PM Modi also inaugurated the Punatsanchchhu-II Project, and the Kalcakra, "The Wheel of Time" empowerment, along with the present King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, with a wide range of talks.