New Delhi: ​​Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a State visit to Bhutan from 21-22 March 2024. The visit will come merely three days after his Bhutanese counterpart Tshering Tobgay’s visit to New Delhi from March 14-18.  

According to the statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit is in line with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between India and Bhutan and the Government’s emphasis on its Neighbourhood First Policy.

​​​During the visit, the Prime Minister will receive an audience with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan and His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan. The Indian leader will also hold talks with Tobgay.

It is worth mentioning ​​​India and Bhutan share a unique and enduring partnership which is rooted in mutual trust, understanding and goodwill. “Our shared spiritual heritage and warm people-to-people ties add depth and vibrancy to our exceptional relations. The visit will provide an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on bilateral and regional matters of interest and deliberate on ways to expand and intensify our exemplary partnership for the benefit of our peoples,” added the statement.

The visit could be dubbed “rare” as there was only one incident when Indian Prime Ministers made any foreign trips after the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates. In 2009, the then Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, had visited the United Kingdom to attend the G20 meeting.