Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for Thimphu, Bhutan, for a two-day state visit on November 11, 2025, describing it as an honour to join the Bhutanese people in celebrating the 70th birthday anniversary of the Fourth King, reports 24brussels.

In a statement before his departure, Modi expressed his anticipation for the visit, highlighting the significance of the Sacred Piprahwa Relics of Lord Buddha being exhibited during the Global Peace Prayer Festival in Bhutan. He noted, “The exposition reflects our two countries’ deep-rooted civilisational and spiritual ties.”

The visit also marks a significant milestone in the India-Bhutan energy partnership, with the inauguration of the Punatsangchhu-II hydropower project scheduled during his stay. Modi expressed optimism about this development, stating, “I am confident that my visit will further deepen our bonds of friendship and strengthen our efforts towards shared progress and prosperity.”

During November 11-12, PM Modi will attend multiple official programmes, including dialogues with His Majesty the King of Bhutan and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. In a post on X, he remarked on the significance of the occasion, stating, “This visit will add new vigour to our bilateral relations.”

The relationship between India and Bhutan is characterized by mutual trust, goodwill, and respect, forming a key component of India’s Neighbourhood First Policy. Modi reiterated the importance of this partnership, describing it as a model for friendly relations between neighbouring states.

India’s Ambassador to Bhutan, Sandeep Arya, stressed the visit’s dual significance, coinciding with both the Global Peace Prayer Festival and the Fourth King’s birthday celebrations. Arya noted, “There is something called the Global Peace Prayer Festival, which Bhutan says is an unprecedented event… that festival is going on right now… praying for world peace and happiness.”

The Prime Minister’s visit has generated considerable anticipation, reflecting the ongoing commitment to enhance and strengthen ties between India and Bhutan amid significant national and spiritual events.