NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday received a warm welcome on his two-day
state visit
to
Bhutan
. Upon his arrival,
PM Modi
was addresses as ‘bade bhai’ (elder brother) by his Bhutanese counterpart
Tshering Tobgay
.
“Welcome to Bhutan, my elder brother @narendramodi Ji,” said Tobgay in post on X.
PM Modi was received by Bhutan’s Tshering Tobgay at
Paro airport
, followed by a ceremonial welcome.
The entire route from Paro International Airport to Thimphu was lined with Bhutanese people waving Indian and Bhutanese flags to greet PM Modi.
This visit aligns with the tradition of
high-level exchanges
between India and Bhutan, reflecting India’s focus on its ‘
Neighbourhood First Policy
‘, according to the ministry of external affairs.
The Prime Minister’s visit, initially scheduled for March 21-22, was postponed due to adverse weather conditions in Bhutan.
PM Modi will meet with King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and also hold discussions with the Bhutanese Prime Minister. Both countries aim to enhance their partnership for mutual benefit through discussions on bilateral and regional interests.
The Prime Minister is set to be welcomed at the Tashichho Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and the Bhutanese government’s seat. He will also inaugurate the Gyaltsuen Jetsun Pema Mother and Child Hospital in Thimphu, a modern facility supported by the Indian Government.