S Jaishankar calls on Bhutan King, PM

New Delhi: After the resolution of the Doklam military face-off with China, foreign secretary S. Jaishankar on Tuesday held wide ranging discussions, including implementation of the ongoing Indian government-assisted projects there, with senior Bhutanese officials in Thimphu, a clear signal to China on the importance that India attaches to ties with Bhutan.

The FS also met the Bhutanese King, PM and foreign minister, with New Delhi saying the “relations between India and Bhutan are characterised by deep understanding and mutual trust”. This comes amid some reports of a fresh Chinese military build-up at Doklam. Interestingly, PM Modi is expected to make a visit soon to a neighbouring country to inaugurate a development project there.

“Dr S. Jaishankar, foreign secretary of India, is visiting Bhutan from October 2-5, 2017. Both sides reviewed preparations for the celebrations of 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2018. The two sides also shared their perspective on regional and other issues of mutual interest,” a statement by the MEA said.

“During the visit, foreign secretary met Dasho Sonam Tshong, foreign secretary of Bhutan. Foreign secretary had an audience with His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan and His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan and called on the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Lyonchhen Tshering Tobgay, and the Foreign Minister of Bhutan, Lyonpo Damcho Dorji,” the MEA statement added.

“The unique relations between India and Bhutan are characterised by deep understanding and mutual trust. The visit of the Foreign Secretary was in keeping with tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries to strengthen and expand the unique ties,” the MEA also said.