In a statement prior to his departure to Bhutan he said, “It would be my honour to join the people of Bhutan as they mark the 70th birth anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King.

“The exposition of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha from India during the organisation of the Global Peace Prayer Festival in Bhutan reflects our two countries’ deep-rooted civilisational and spiritual ties.”

PM said the visit will also mark another major milestone in our successful energy partnership with the inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project.

He said, “I look forward to meeting His Majesty the King of Bhutan, His Majesty the Fourth King, and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. I am confident that my visit will further deepen our bonds of friendship and strengthen our efforts towards shared progress and prosperity.”

PM Modi said India and Bhutan enjoy exemplary ties of friendship and cooperation, rooted in deep mutual trust, understanding, and goodwill. “Our partnership is a key pillar of our Neighbourhood First Policy and a model for exemplary friendly relations between neighbouring countries,” he added.