Since ages, Bharat and Bhutan have shared deep cultural and historical ties. The two nations, sharing a 270-km border have always maintained a cordial and cooperative relationship, with Bharat guaranteeing Bhutan’s security. The recent visit of Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma to Bhutan marks a significant step towards further strengthening these enduring ties.
Responding to the invitation of Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Chief Minister Sarma accompanied by his wife and senior government officials, arrived in Bhutan on December 16.
On the first day of his visit, the Assam Chief Minister participated in a roadshow in Thimphu, giving a strong push to the upcoming Advantage Assam 2.0 event. The roadshow marked a key moment in advancing bilateral trade and investment ties between Assam and Bhutan.
Dr. Sarma also participated in the Bhutan’s National Day celebrations on December 17, marking a historic moment as the first-ever Chief Minister of any Indian state to attend this prestigious event.
He expressed his gratitude on X, reflecting on the vibrant celebrations stating, “The colours and vibrancy of Bhutan were on unparalleled display today at the 117th National Day Celebrations in Thimphu, which Riniki and I were extremely honoured to attend. The warm hospitality of His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Her Majesty Jetsun Pema, the outstanding procession and performances, and the affection of the great people of Bhutan will forever be etched in our minds.”
During the visit, the Chief Minister had a fruitful meeting with Tshering Tobgay, the Prime Minister of Bhutan. Reflecting on the discussions, Sarma mentioned in his social media handle, “We had very productive discussions on how Bhutan and Assam can complement each other’s growth aspirations. On behalf of the people of Assam, I also extended a warm invitation to His Excellency to grace Advantage Assam 2.0 in February 2025.”
On the third day, the Chief Minister participated in an insightful presentation on the Gelephu Mindfulness City Project, which offered valuable insights into the framework and objectives of the initiative. He also met with former Bhutan King, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, a statesman whom Dr. Sarma referred to as an “institution.” Sarma shared on X, “During our meeting today, I had the honour to gain valuable insights from His Majesty’s vast experience in public service and his vision to deepen the unique and enduring bond between India and Bhutan.”
Reminiscing the spiritual & cultural connection between the two nations, Sarma visited the historic Simtokha Dzong to seek blessings.
In a significant moment of bilateral diplomacy, the Chief Minister also held discussions with the King of Bhutan on enhancing the historical ties between Assam and Bhutan, focusing on collaborative efforts for mutual growth.
This visit follows the visit of Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck to Assam in November 2023, during which he visited Kaziranga National Park and the Kamakhya Temple. The Bhutanese King held discussions with Chief Minister Sarma on strengthening infrastructure partnerships, cooperation in healthcare, and the shared spiritual heritage and people-to-people ties between the two regions.
This growing collaboration highlights the deepening partnership between Bharat and Bhutan, built on shared values, economic cooperation, and spiritual connections to consolidate this unique and enduring friendship.
