Top Leaders of Indian and Bhutan discusses key Areas of Cooperation | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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Top Leaders of Indian and Bhutan discusses key Areas of Cooperation

Posted 07 Dec 2024

2 min read

Recently, on an official visit of the King of Bhutan, Prime Minister of India reaffirmed commitment to enduring friendship and cooperation between the two countries, ensuring support for Bhutan’s socio-economic development.

Key outcomes Joint Statement on Official visit

  • Projects and initiatives: King of Bhutan highlighted his vision for Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) Special Administrative Region, and prospects of India and Bhutan working together on the project.
    • GMC in Bhutan, envisioned by Bhutan King, is an innovative urban development project that integrates economic growth with mindfulness, holistic living, and sustainability.
  • Energy Cooperation: Leaders reiterated the importance of cooperation in the hydropower sector and agreed on the need for early conclusion of the Punatsangchhu-I hydro power project and noted progress on the 1020 MW Punatshangchhu-II hydro power project.
  • Connectivity and Infrastructure: Opening of the Integrated Check Post at Darranga was acknowledged as beneficial for tourism and economic activity in eastern Bhutan.
  • Cooperation in Space and STEM: Leaders welcomed progress made in implementation of Joint Plan of Action for cooperation in Space sector and expressed satisfaction on increased collaboration in the field of education, with emphasis on STEM disciplines.

India - Bhutan Relations

  • Treaty of Friendship: The foundational framework is the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation signed in 1949, renewed in February 2007. 
  • Trade and Economic Ties: India is Bhutan's top trade partner, with trade nearly tripling from USD 484 million in 2014-15 to USD 1606 million in 2022-23.
  • Development Partnership: India has been a principal development partner since the early 1960s, contributing significantly to Bhutan’s Five-Year Plans.
  • Defence and Security: India supports Bhutan’s claims on Doklam tri-junction against China.
  • Tags :
  • India-Bhutan
  • Gelephu Mindfulness City
  • Doklam Tri-junction
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