Mere a day ahead of PM Modi’s scheduled state visit to Bhutan, the Ministry of External Affairs announced the postponement of the same on Wednesday.
Citing the ongoing inclement weather conditions over Paro airport, the MEA announced the postponement of the state visit of PM Modi until an unspecified date.
In a statement released, the Ministry of External Affairs said, “Due to ongoing inclement weather conditions over Paro airport, it has been mutually decided to postpone the State visit of the Prime Minister to Bhutan on 21-22 March 2024.” New dates are being worked out by the two sides through diplomatic channels,” the MEA added.
It is pertinent to note that PM Modi was scheduled to visit Bhutan on a two-day visit at the invitation of the newly appointed Prime Minister of Bhutan, PM Dasho Tshering Tobgay. The Bhutanese PM, who was earlier (March 14-March 18) on his first overseas visit after assuming office in January 2024, had first extended an invitation to PM Modi then. Upon the completion of the four-day visit of the Bhutanese PM, the Ministry of External Affairs announced the schedule of the visit.Earlier, while deliberating on PM Modi’s visit, the MEA also shared a glimpse of the multifaceted ties and the current state of the bilateral partnership shared between the two nations.
The MEA said, “India and Bhutan share a unique enduring partnership 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.”
Moreover, following the Bhutanese PM’s visit, India and Bhutan announced collaboration in a range of subjects. Most recently, an MoU has been signed on the Concessionary Financing of INR 1500 crores to the Royal Government of Bhutan for GyalSung – Bhutan’s National Service Program initiated by His Majesty the King for skilling and leadership development of the youth of Bhutan.
