Thimphu: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Bhutan’s revered Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, during his two-day visit to the Himalayan nation, reinforcing the deep-rooted friendship between the two neighbours.
During the meeting, both leaders discussed a wide range of issues, including energy cooperation, trade, technology, and connectivity. Modi praised the former King’s lifelong efforts to strengthen India-Bhutan relations and lauded Bhutan’s vision for the Gelephu Mindfulness City Project, which he said aligns closely with India’s Act East Policy.
Later in the day, Modi joined King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck to inaugurate the Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project, calling it an enduring symbol of friendship between the two countries. The project, he said, embodies the shared goal of fuelling development, deepening friendship, and driving sustainability in the region.
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
Adding another layer to the partnership, Modi announced the setting up of an immigration checkpoint at Hatisar, opposite Bhutan’s Gelephu, to ease connectivity and cross-border movement. India also extended a line of credit worth ₹4,000 crore to Bhutan to support its ongoing development projects.
Three key Memoranda of Understanding were exchanged during the visit, covering renewable energy, health and medicine, and institutional linkages in mental health between Bhutan’s PEMA Secretariat and India’s National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS).
The Prime Minister also took part in the Kalachakra Empowerment ceremony, one of Tibetan Buddhism’s most sacred rituals, held as part of the Global Peace Prayer Festival in Thimphu.
Had the honour of inaugurating Kālacakra ‘Wheel of Time’ Empowerment with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan and His Majesty The Fourth Druk Gyalpo. It was presided over by His Holiness the Je Khenpo which made it even more special. This is an… pic.twitter.com/H4ZOFvOkZn
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2025
The festival brought together Buddhist leaders, peace advocates, and practitioners from around the world in a collective prayer for global harmony. The ceremony was presided over by Bhutan’s Chief Abbot, the Je Khenpo.
Earlier, Bhutan’s King had expressed condolences over the tragic explosion in Delhi on November 10, offering prayers for the victims and the speedy recovery of those injured.
PM Modi’s visit, marked by spiritual reflection and concrete partnerships, underscored the enduring warmth and mutual respect that define the India-Bhutan relationship.
