Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a significant visit to Bhutan on November 11, 2025, marking another important chapter in the enduring friendship between the two neighboring nations. The visit focuses on strengthening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, with a particular emphasis on energy collaboration through a major hydroelectric project.
Strengthening India-Bhutan Strategic Partnership
The upcoming visit represents Prime Minister Modi's continuous efforts to reinforce India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. Bhutan holds a special position in India's foreign policy framework, and this visit aims to deepen the already strong bonds between the two countries. The relationship between India and Bhutan has traditionally been characterized by trust, mutual respect, and extensive cooperation.
During his one-day visit, PM Modi will engage in comprehensive discussions with Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. These high-level meetings are expected to cover the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including economic cooperation, security partnerships, and cultural exchanges. The timing of this visit is particularly significant as it comes amid evolving regional dynamics.
Major 1,020 MW Hydroelectric Project Takes Center Stage
The highlight of the visit will be the focus on the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II hydroelectric project, a landmark initiative that demonstrates the successful energy cooperation between India and Bhutan. This massive infrastructure project has been developed with Indian assistance and represents the growing partnership in the power sector.
Hydroelectric power cooperation has been a cornerstone of India-Bhutan economic relations for decades. The two countries have successfully collaborated on multiple hydroelectric projects that have benefited both nations. These projects provide Bhutan with a significant source of revenue through electricity exports to India while helping India meet its growing energy demands through clean power sources.
The 1,020 MW project is among the largest joint ventures between the two countries and symbolizes the trust and technical cooperation that defines their relationship. The successful implementation of such projects has made hydropower cooperation one of the most visible and successful aspects of the bilateral partnership.
Comprehensive Bilateral Agenda Beyond Energy
While the hydroelectric project remains a key focus area, the bilateral discussions will encompass a much broader agenda. The leaders are expected to review the entire range of cooperation areas including trade, economic collaboration, educational exchanges, and cultural partnerships.
India has been Bhutan's largest trading partner and the primary source of foreign investment. The visit will provide an opportunity to enhance economic ties further and explore new areas of collaboration. Both nations share concerns about regional security and are likely to discuss measures to strengthen their security cooperation.
The cultural dimension of the relationship will also receive attention during the visit. India and Bhutan share deep historical and cultural connections, with Buddhism serving as an important cultural bridge between the two civilizations. The discussions may include initiatives to promote people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges.
This visit follows the pattern of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries, which has been a key factor in maintaining the special relationship. Prime Minister Modi's previous visits to Bhutan have consistently resulted in strengthening bilateral ties and launching new initiatives for mutual benefit.
The November 11 visit is expected to conclude with the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding covering various sectors of mutual interest. These agreements will likely provide a framework for enhanced cooperation in the coming years and set the direction for the future development of India-Bhutan relations.
