India and Bhutan have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation across a wide spectrum of areas, with a particular emphasis on cross-border connectivity. During a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk, the two nations agreed to conduct the Final Location Survey for the first cross-border rail link connecting Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan, with the support of the Indian government.
The joint statement from the meeting outlines various aspects of expanded collaboration, including trade, technology, investments, education, and people-to-people connections. Additional immigration check posts will be established to enhance connectivity and promote tourism, with the Haldibari-Chilahati rail route designated as an additional trade route for Bhutan’s trade with Bangladesh. Both nations will also bolster their efforts in environmental conservation and wildlife preservation.
India has agreed to provide bridge financing for Bhutan’s projects between the 12th and 13th Five-Year Plans, further strengthening the strong and unique relationship between these neighboring countries.
