𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐋: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚-𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩: 𝐀 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞-𝐓𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐬

The diplomatic relationship between India and Bhutan has evolved significantly since its inception in 1968, marked by a series of noteworthy achievements and a profound spirit of friendship and cooperation. Central to this enduring bond is the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, initially signed in 1949 and reaffirmed during the historic visit of His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in February 2007. This treaty not only reflects the contemporary essence of their partnership but also lays a robust foundation for their collective progress in the 21st century.

A cornerstone of the India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty is the unwavering commitment to perpetual peace and camaraderie between the two nations. This commitment has been further reinforced over time through regular high-level exchanges and extensive dialogues. Notably, His Majesty’s participation as the Chief Guest at India’s 64th Republic Day celebrations highlighted the depth and warmth of the bilateral relationship.

Economic cooperation has emerged as a vital pillar of India-Bhutan relations, with India assuming the role of Bhutan’s principal trading and development partner. This partnership traces its origins back to the early 1960s when Bhutan embarked on planned development initiatives, supported by crucial financial assistance from India to bolster its Five Year Plans. This enduring support has played a pivotal role in propelling Bhutan’s socio-economic advancement and development trajectory.

The trade and commerce agreement signed between India and Bhutan in 1972, and subsequently renewed in 2006, highlights a steadfast commitment to a mutually beneficial free trade regime. India’s pivotal role as Bhutan’s primary development and trade partner further solidifies the bilateral economic ties, fostering avenues for shared growth and prosperity.

Beyond the economic realm, India and Bhutan foster close collaboration in education and cultural spheres. The Government of India’s provision of scholarships to Bhutanese students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels facilitates access to high-quality education in Indian institutions, fostering deeper cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

The establishment of the India-Bhutan Foundation in 2003 during His Majesty the King’s visit to India serves as a testament to enhancing people-to-people exchanges in crucial areas such as education, culture, and environmental protection. Guided by co-chairpersons from Bhutan and India, the foundation’s initiatives significantly contribute to fortifying the bond between the two nations at a grassroots level.

A recent highlight in India-Bhutan relations was Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Bhutan in March 2024, further solidifying the commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across various sectors. This visit stressed a shared vision for collaboration in hydro-power, transport, communications, infrastructure, health, education, culture, IT industry, and agriculture, paving the way for new avenues of mutual growth and collaboration.

The enduring friendship and collaboration between India and Bhutan have withstood the test of time, epitomizing a unique and cherished bilateral relationship in South Asia. This relationship, characterized by mutual trust, confidence, and a shared vision for the future, has played a pivotal role in shaping Bhutan’s development narrative based on the principles of Gross National Happiness (GNH). Regular high-level political engagements continue to play a vital role in nurturing and enhancing this valued partnership, ensuring that India and Bhutan remain steadfast allies and friends for generations to come.