India and Bhutan have reaffirmed their close bilateral partnership, reviewing cooperation across development, energy, trade, connectivity and other important sectors during External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar’s official visit to Bhutan from September 16 to 18. Invited by Bhutanese Foreign Minister Lyonpo D. N. Dhungyel, Jaishankar met the Bhutan King, called on Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay and held discussions with Dhungyel in Bumthang. Both countries welcomed the progress of their longstanding partnership and India reiterated its commitment to supporting Bhutan’s development priorities under the 13th Five Year Plan. Several initiatives were launched, including the 65-bed Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Mother and Child Hospital, the transfer of 43 Jersey cows, the Jaganathan Bridge and the handover of 54 electric vehicles. The ministers also participated in the foundation ceremony of the 500 kW Lunana Hydropower Project.
Energy cooperation remained a major focus, with both sides welcoming developments involving the Punatsangchhu hydropower projects and a concessional INR 4,000 crore credit line for Bhutanese energy initiatives. Discussions also covered the Gelephu Mindfulness City, cross-border railway connectivity, trade arrangements and digital payments through UPI. India and Bhutan further agreed to expand educational opportunities by increasing scholarship seats for Bhutanese students under Indian scholarship programmes. Cooperation in space technology, healthcare, cultural exchanges and environmental monitoring was also highlighted. India appreciated Bhutan’s support for its 2028-2029 UN Security Council candidature, while Jaishankar invited his Bhutanese counterpart to visit India.