New Delhi: In a move underscoring deepening regional ties, Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck visited the Inland Waterways Terminal (IWT) and the Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in Jogighopa, Assam. The visit, announced by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in April, highlights growing Indo-Bhutan collaboration in connectivity and trade.

After he arrived in Assam on April 19, King Wangchuck was warmly received by Assam Minister for Public Health Engineering, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Jayanta Mallabaruah. The visit quickly drew attention on social media, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma extending a personal welcome via X (formerly Twitter).

“A very warm welcome to His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, to Assam. The Jogighopa MMLP will be a game-changer for the larger Indo-Bhutan region and ensure seamless trade and logistics movement,” Sarma posted. “It will also aid in the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City.”

Sarma added that the visit reflected “the shared interests and close ties between the State of Assam and Bhutan for a better future for our people.”

According to the MEA, India remains committed to enhancing regional connectivity under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. Key projects such as the Jogighopa IWT, inaugurated in February this year, are vital in boosting economic development and cross-border logistics.

“The visit of the King of Bhutan to Jogighopa, Assam, is in keeping with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries,” said the MEA, noting the unique and enduring friendship between India and Bhutan, built on mutual trust and goodwill.

This royal engagement follows recent diplomatic activity at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with his Bhutanese counterpart Tshering Tobgay. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regional cooperation.

“Had a great conversation with my good friend, PM Tobgay. India’s friendship with Bhutan is robust. We are cooperating extensively in several sectors,” PM Modi shared on X. Echoing the sentiment, PM Tobgay described Modi as “my elder brother and mentor,” emphasizing continued collaboration on regional development and connectivity.