Joint commitment to enhance connectivity and promote cross-border trade, focusing on the Gelephu Special Administrative Region.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Bhutan, both nations pledged to enhance connectivity and trade ties, particularly focusing on the Gelephu Special Administrative Region. This commitment aims to bolster economic connectivity and partnerships in the region.
The joint statement emphasised the historical development partnership between India and Bhutan, tracing back to Bhutan’s First Five-Year Plan in 1961. It highlighted the alignment of India’s developmental approach with Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
Furthermore, both countries reiterated their dedication to expanding this partnership in line with the priorities of the people and the Bhutanese government. They welcomed the Joint Vision Statement of the India-Bhutan Energy Partnership, emphasising mutual benefits in energy cooperation, especially in hydropower, solar, and green hydrogen sectors.
India and Bhutan expressed their mutual commitment to harnessing technology for economic growth and the well-being of their citizens. Strengthening trade and investment linkages, particularly through the private sector, was underscored as crucial for fostering economic connectivity and closer ties between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit culminated in a warm reception from the Bhutanese people, where he was honoured with the ‘Order of the Druk Gyalpo,’ Bhutan’s highest civilian award. During bilateral talks with Bhutan’s counterpart, Tshering Tobgay, several Memoranda of Understanding were exchanged, signifying the depth of cooperation between the two countries.
The visit symbolised the enduring friendship and partnership between India and Bhutan, both striving for progress and prosperity in their respective developmental trajectories.
The commitment to promoting connectivity and expanding trade and investment ties, particularly in the Gelephu Special Administrative Region, underscores the shared vision of both nations to foster greater economic cooperation. This initiative aims to facilitate the seamless cross-border movement of goods and services, bolstering economic partnerships and regional connectivity.
The focus on trade infrastructure development, including rail links, roads, air, and waterways, reflects the commitment to enhancing connectivity for the mutual benefit of both countries. By strengthening trade infrastructure, India and Bhutan aim to facilitate smoother trade flows and promote economic growth in the region.
The joint statement reaffirmed the importance of India’s development partnership with Bhutan, which has been instrumental in empowering the people and ensuring holistic development across sectors and regions. This partnership is characterised by India’s inclusive approach of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas’ and Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
Moreover, the commitment to expanding clean energy partnerships in sectors such as hydropower, solar, and green hydrogen highlights the shared goal of sustainable development and energy security in the region. By leveraging their technological expertise and skilled talent, India and Bhutan aim to enhance energy cooperation for mutual benefit.
The visit also underscored the significance of harnessing technology for rapid economic growth and promoting the well-being of the people of both countries. By embracing technological advancements, India and Bhutan seek to drive innovation, create employment opportunities, and foster economic prosperity in the region.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Bhutan reaffirmed the strong bonds of friendship and partnership between India and Bhutan. The commitment to enhancing connectivity, strengthening trade infrastructure, and expanding development partnerships underscores the shared vision of both nations for greater regional cooperation and prosperity.
Source: ANI
