Key Outcomes of Indian Foreign Minister’s Bhutan Mission Revealed

Thimphu, 18 September – Indian Foreign Minister S. Jay Shah completed his official visit to Bhutan on Friday, leaving behind a trail of agreements and reaffirmed commitments. The visit, prompted by an invitation from Bhutan’s Foreign and External Trade Minister Lyonpo D.N. Dhomgyel, focused on consolidating the long‑standing India‑Bhutan friendship.

Speaking on the social media platform X, Minister Shah called the trip “successful” and highlighted the heartfelt connection between the two peoples.

A joint communiqué, issued after the meetings, praised the progress made in strengthening India‑Bhutan ties under the guidance of King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The document also acknowledged the advances in bilateral development cooperation.

Shah reiterated India’s pledge to back Bhutan’s development goals encapsulated in the 13th Five‑Year Plan (2024‑29). Bhutan reciprocated by expressing appreciation for the support received from New Delhi across multiple programmes.

Energy cooperation featured prominently. Both ministers noted the implementation of the March 2024 energy partnership vision, recalling the launch of the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu‑II hydropower project, the signing of its tariff protocol, and the restart of construction on the 1,200 MW Punatsangchhu‑I dam.

A major financial accord was signed, granting Bhutan a concessional line of credit of INR 4,000 crore for hydropower development. The statement welcomed the proactive involvement of Indian firms in these ventures, marking a new phase in energy collaboration.

The partnership also extended to the Gelug Mindfulness City (GMC) project, with India confirming its support for the king’s vision. Both sides agreed to maintain a joint working group to further develop GMC‑related initiatives.