Embassy of India

2006-07

A. Excerpts from MEA Annual report wrt Bhutan

India-Bhutan relations, which are based on shared historical and cultural linkages, were further consolidated in all areas. India conveyed its full support to Bhutan during its transition to a democratic constitutional monarchy.

King Jigme Singye Wangchuck of Bhutan accompanied by the Trongsa Penlop Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the Crown Prince of Bhutan, visited India from 26-31 July 2006.

In a momentous development, Jigme Singye Wangchuck announced the transfer of responsibilities of the Monarch and Head of State to the Crown Prince Trongsa Penlop Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck on 9 December 2006 who became the Fifth Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan.

Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the Fifth Druk Gyalpo, paid his first visit abroad to India from 7-12 February 2007, during which India and Bhutan signed the India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty, which updates the Treaty of 1949. The signing of the Treaty marked a historic moment in our relations with Bhutan, and reflects our mutual desire to enhance our relationship with Bhutan to an even higher level of cooperation and goodwill to meet the aspirations of our two peoples for a better life. The Treaty reinforces the close, warm and exemplary relations of complete trust, respect and confidence that have existed between the two countries for decades.

B. Budget allocation to Bhutan

C. Details of Incoming Visits by Heads of State / Heads of Government / Vice Presidents / Foreign Ministers and Equivalent to India in 2006